NATURAL Resources Wales has downplayed the emergence of discoloured and foul smelling water in a stream in Flintshire.

The Welsh Government sponsored body has said the discolouration of areas of Balderton Brook in Saltney 'appears to be due to stagnant water, caused by recent flooding, draining away in hot weather conditions.'

It is the fourth time this year that reports of pollution in the brook have been made, with the theft of red diesel from a Welsh Water bowser causing spillage and subsequent pollution in April.

This week has seen the brook become discoloured once again, with what residents say seems to be by traces of oil, with a foul smell arising from it.

But Natural Resources Wales has been quick to downplay the reports as stagnant water, with impact to local flora and fauna being 'minimal'.

Anthony Randles, Natural Resources Wales team leader in North East Wales said: “Over the last week we’ve been investigating reports that Balderton Brook in Saltney is discoloured and odorous.

“Based on discussions with local landowners and river sampling, the discolouration appears to be due to stagnant water, caused by recent flooding, draining away in hot weather conditions.

“If an oily sheen is spotted, this is minimal and may be the result of a previous spill in March."

But people living in the vicinity of the brook have been left wanting 'to throw up' due to the smell coming from it.

One resident said: "The smell coming from the brook is absolutely awful. It made me want to throw up when crossing the bridge.

"All the ducks and fish are gone. There were hundreds of them before this happened."

Regarding the foul smell, Natural Resources Wales says it has 'updated Flintshire County Council' and is 'working with Environment Agency as this is a cross border issue."

Mr Randles added: “The impact to the River Dee, to which the brook flows, is minimal and no fish or wildlife have been seen in distress.

“We have been on site again today (July 1) and will continue to monitor the situation. If anyone has further concerns, please call our 24-hour incident hotline 03000 65 3000.”