Heron dies after oil spill pollutes rivers

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

A heron has died after being covered in thick black oil two weeks after a massive spill polluted rivers in Morden Park and Richmond Park.

The oil spill is thought to have started in Pyl Brook in Lower Morden, which runs into Beverley Brook in New Malden.

It is believed to have been dumped in the water and was spotted by a dog walker on March 25.

The Environment Agency is still working to clear the waterways and is investigating its cause.

But people have reported that a heron covered in oil was found dead near Malden golf course on Saturday morning.

In the aftermath of the spill dog walkers on Wimbledon and Putney Commons and Richmond Park were warned against letting their dogs enter the water.

Pyl Brook is a small stream with two sources, a 5.3km main brook in Sutton Common, which joins Beverley Brook in New Malden and a 3.9km East Pyl Brook that eventually joins the main Pyl east in Raynes Park

A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: “We are investigating the pollution incident in the Beverley Brook.

“We continue to work with contractors to remove the oil, limiting potential impact to the environment and wildlife.

“Our priority at this time is to respond to this incident and limit harm to the environment as much as possible. We are also collecting evidence to support our investigation into this unpermitted water discharge activity.”

The body asked the public to report any pollution they spot by calling 0800 807060.

Pictured top: Pyl Brook