Oil risk to land and water quality in north-west England highlighted

Water quality in the north-west of England is being jeopardised by harmful substances leaked from illegally scrapped cars, experts have warned.

The Environment Agency estimates that more than 600,000 litres of oil from the vehicles could be contaminating land and water in the region each year, causing lasting damage to the ecosystem.

As a result, the organisation has launched a new advertising campaign to raise awareness of the impact illegally scrapped cars can have on land and water quality.

Environment manager Gordon Whitaker said educating the public as to "the right and wrong way to scrap your car" will help reduce the supply of vehicles to illegal operators and prevent any future damage.

The agency issues licences to reputable operators who are committed to cleaning up vehicles before they are scrapped, removing any harmful substances and facilitating recycling.

Its latest awareness campaign follows the re-launch of the group's Quantum of Fish film, designed to remind people of the need to acquire a licence to fish ahead of the new season.