ON FRIDAY afternoon, I became aware of an issue regarding a spillage in the River Esk. As the local MSP and chair of ERIG (Esk River Improvement Group), I have been horrified to see what seems to be a serious pollution incident on the River Esk.

Through the power of social media, it was clear that this issue became widespread from the source of the spillage right down to the mouth of the River Esk into the Firth of Forth. I visited the Esk on Saturday to witness the spillage for myself and was shocked at the extent of this issue. I have been in regular contact with SEPA, East Lothian Council and the SSPCA pressing for updates on the situation to update my constituents and have updated my social media pages with any information received from these bodies.

I share the anxiety that this has caused locals in Musselburgh and understand how important it is that information is communicated by all relevant stakeholders. I know my constituents have expressed great concern over the response effort to this incident and I will be following this up directly with all authorities and, once resolved, plan to meet with them to discuss their response to this incident and what can be improved in future.

I would like to give a huge thank you to the Musselburgh community and everyone who came together to help with this incident over the weekend – whether that was going down to the Esk to give assistance, helping the Esk’s wildlife, calling SEPA, or sharing posts on social media to make the wider community aware, it was all very much appreciated from myself. I would ask if you witness any pollution, please report this using SEPA’s 24-hour online form at sepa.org.uk/report or by calling the Pollution Hotline: 0800 80 70 60.

Similarly, if you see an animal in danger or which appears to be injured, call the SSPCA’s animal helpline immediately on 03000 999 999.

The next ERIG meeting is conveniently being held on Monday, where I will ensure this matter is top of the agenda.