A STREAM running through a Basingstoke park which suddenly turned white last week is something which happens “several times a year” according to the council.

As previously reported, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council received reports last Wednesday that the River Loddon in Eastrop Park had turned white.

The following day, it had returned to normal, but when the Gazette went to visit a woman was there carrying out checks on the water.

She told concerned passers-by that there were no health and safety issues regarding the water but was unable to shed any light as to why it had turned white.

Now, Councillor Mark Ruffell, the borough council’s cabinet member for the natural environment and climate improvements, has said the colour was because of chalk deposits.

He explained: “The temporary discolouration of the River Loddon running through Eastrop Park was due to chalk deposits.

“The River Loddon is inspected and managed by the Environment Agency. We understand that discolouration such as this happens several times a year and usually clears within a few hours.”

The Environment Agency has yet to respond to a request for further information.