Latest testing of the River Nidd has revealed it continues to suffer high levels of the bacteria E.coli, which scientists say is a strong indicator of raw sewage.

The government accepted a bid for Bathing Water Status on the Nidd in May. Since then, the Environment Agency has undertaken weekly testing of a stretch of the river by Knaresborough Lido.

The idea behind the status is that more monitoring should help Yorkshire Water and other polluters better understand the problem so they can work to reduce the amount of waste that goes into the river.

Sampling has so far highlighted the huge amount of work required to clean up the river so it’s safe to swim in.