Thetford, Norfolk – Dead fish and juvenile fish have been discovered in the River Thet in Thetford, Norfolk, following the appearance of a large stretch of white foam on Saturday, February 24, 2024.The Environment Agency confirmed the fish deaths and is investigating the source of the pollution.
Images released by the agency showed the foam covering a notable area of the river. Environment Agency officers detected the source of the foam and stopped further discharge. Specialist teams collected samples to identify the unknown pollutant.
Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service cautioned the public not to enter the water or allow pets to swim or drink from the River Thet. Anglian Water stated the incident did not originate from its equipment or assets, confirming the involvement of a “third party.”
The Environment Agency anticipates the possibility of a second foam plume but believes it will have “little environmental impact as it dissipates.” agency spokesperson stated, ”Our specialist teams have collected samples, detected the possible source, and prevented any further discharge.There will be an ongoing investigation to try to ensure that this does not happen again.”
The agency also responded to a similar foam incident on the river Thet on December 23, 2024, but was unable to determine the source at that time.
this incident follows a 2023 investigation by the Guardian and Watershed which revealed “extremely high levels” of toxic substances, including PFAS and firefighting foams, polluting the protected River Wyre in Lancashire.
