Oil firm found guilty of reducing water quality in Worcester

An oil firm has been charged for reducing the water quality and increasing pollution in Worcester.

Earlier this week, Mark Group was fined £12,000 and made to pay £5,563.53 by Worcester Magistrates' Court for breaching the Water Resources Act.

The Environment Agency brought the case against the firm after one of its officers reported oil spills on Mark Group's premises and nearby roads in 2008, which then flowed into the Barbourne Brooke through Gheluvelt Park.

Swans at the park pond were coated in oil and had to be treated by Bishopswood Swan Rescue, the court heard.

The Environment Agency officer involved in the incident said that the firm did not follow "some pretty basic environmental responsibilities".

"Companies who do not train or supervise their staff properly will be held to account for any pollution they cause," it was added.

According to the organisation, there are around 3,000 incidences involving oil spills in England and Wales every year, causing serious problems concerning water quality.

It added that as well as polluting drinking water supplies, it harms wildlife.

Posted by Lauren Steadman