SOUTHAMPTON residents are being urged not to let their dogs swim in lakes at a Southampton park. 

It comes following a recent algae bloom at the Boating Lake on Southampton Common which has been temporarily fenced off. 

Furthermore, the city council is now urging people not to throw bread for birds as crumbs can encourage algae to grow.

A spokesperson for Southampton City Council said: “We are continuing to monitor the boating lake on Southampton Common. Temporary fencing has been installed around the area to prevent people and animals coming into contact with the water. This will remain until the algae has broken down and there has been some heavy rain to flush away any toxins.

“To reduce the likelihood of algal blooms in the future, we are asking people to restrict duck feeding to the Cemetery Lake only and to not allow dogs to swim in any of the lakes on the Common. Cemetery Lake has a specific duck feeding area. We also ask for you to please not throw bread for the birds as uneaten bread and crumbs can encourage algae to grow."