Environment Agency officers have been out since first light to assess the extent of a major oil spill along the River Bourne in Hampshire– one of the country’s most important salmon fishing rivers.

Environment Agency officers are doing everything they can to minimize the effects of the spill. Booms and absorbent pads have been placed in the water to contain the oil pollution. No dead fish have been reported, but fisheries officers will continue to keep a close watch on river life. All efforts are being deployed by Environment Agency staff to minimise further impact on to the river and local wildlife.

Officers will continue to monitor the situation and respond as necessary.

Environment Agency Manager Simon Moody said: "This is a major oil spill along the River Bourne. Environment Agency officers have been out since first light doing everything they can to minimise the impact on the environment. We will be overseeing the clean up and will launch a full investigation into the cause. "We advise people to keep themselves and their pets out of the water until the incident is resolved."

The public are our eyes and ears and if anyone has any further information regarding this incident please call our 24 hour Incident Hotline number on 0800 807060.