THE Environment Agency has issued an urgent warning to bathers after reports of an ‘oil spill’ in a North Cornwall beauty spot.

The agency has confirmed that it has issued advice against bathing at three beaches, namely Trebarwith Strand, Crackington Haven and Widemouth Sand after lifeguards reported oil being washed up on the beaches.

Officers from the Environment Agency have since inspected Crackington Haven beach and will be monitoring the situation.

It is understood that Cornwall Council has distributed information and advisory signage at all three of the beaches.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “We issued advice against bathing at Trebarwith Strand, Crackington Haven and Widemouth Sand after reports of oil on the beach from lifeguards.

“Our offices inspected Crackington Haven beach and we will continue to monitor the situation. Cornwall Council are distributing information and advisory signage at all three beaches.”