Two swans were taken to the Swan Sanctuary due to an oil spill in Borehamwood Brook, in Aberford Park.

The Environment Agency received a report of oil on the lakes in Aberford Park in Borehanwood on Friday January 22.

A large quantity of old oil was present over the lakes and approximately 50m downstream the oil had collected.

According to the agency the oil appeared to be old engine oil which produced a patchy coverage and it had no odour.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “Pollution of this kind is usually caused by the illegal or careless disposal of liquids and a high flow through the drainage network following the heavy rain on Friday.

“Our officers were able to contain the remaining oil between the top of the lakes and further downstream preventing further spread. We will monitor the situation and will remove the oil either by using absorbents materials or tanker.

“The water quality of the lake was slightly affected by the incident due to the small quantity and age of the oil.

“However, we are confident that it should recover very quickly with no lasting damage. The cold weather helped reduce the impact on water quality and minimised any effect on water ecology.

“Some wild fowl were affected by the oil but these were attended to by a swan rescue charity, we will continue to monitor the site for any other affected wildlife.

“Fortunately on this occasion the impact to the lakes and wildlife was minimal.”

The Environment Agency are currently investigating the cause of the oil spill but have not yet been able to determine the source or responsible party for the pollution.

The Swan Sanctuary said: “The swans are doing fine and quite well. They will be dropped by in the brook providing it has been cleaned.”

Pollution incidents can be reported via the Incident Hotline 0800 807060.