DOG owners have been warned to ensure their pets stay out of the lake at a Redditch beauty spot due to a growth of blue green algae.

Bosses at Redditch Borough Council have urged people to ensure they and their pooches do not venture into the water at Arrow Valley Lake, Redditch, due to concerns about toxic blue green algae.

A note on the council’s Facebook page said visitors should avoid contact with the water as it may cause skin irritation and an upset stomach.

It adds: “The algae is toxic to humans and may be fatal to pets.”

The Environment Agency says: “Bloom and scum forming blue-green algae can produce toxins. Toxin producing blooms are called Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).

“These toxins can kill wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets.

“In humans, they can cause rashes after skin contact and illnesses if swallowed. Not all blue-green algae blooms and scums are toxic, but you can’t tell just by looking at them, so it’s best to assume they are.”

Redditch Borough Council has said the water is currently being treated.