The Department of Environment has raised the red flag at Western Beach and is advising against all swimming until further notice, due to the detection of intestinal enterococci bacteria during routine testing today.

The detection of this bacteria is unusual and the Department is investigating the cause as a matter of urgency. It could be the former cause from north of the border or simply a local effect from seagull faeces.

All other beaches in Gibraltar have passed routine bathing water tests and are safe for swimming.

The Government takes this opportunity to thank the public for their understanding and patience as work continues to return Western Beach to its usual excellent standards as soon as possible.