THE DISCOVERY of toxic blue-green algae has led to the closure of the Hampshire section of the Basingstoke Canal.

The Environment Agency found the algae today between Dogmersfield and Broad Oak, and at Odiham.

It has closed the canal from Ash lock to Greywell to all unpowered boats, such as canoes and rowing boats.

Visitors to the canal are being advised to take further precautions.

People are advised not to touch of go in the water as the algae can cause skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, fever and muscle pain.

Warning signs have been put up along the affected stretch of the canal.