DOG owners are urged to keep their four-legged friends away from the water at a Northwich beauty spot after an increase in blue-green algae.

Warm weather has caused more algae to appear in the water at Marbury Park, a popular dog-walking destination.

The algae can be fatal to dogs or cause long-term health problems if they drink or swim in the contaminated water.

Dog owners should keep their pets away from the water and visit a vet immediately if their dog becomes unwell.

A spokesperson for Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “Warm weather conditions have caused an increase in algae near the banks of the water at Marbury Park.

“We are advising owners of dogs that it can be toxic, causing stomach upsets, vomiting, diarrhoea or be fatal if they ingest the algae or drink the water.

“We recommend dog owners keep their animals away from the water, and they should visit a vet immediately if their dog becomes unwell or shows these symptoms.”