FISHERMEN will not be able to cast their lines at a lake in Earley closed because of high levels of blue green algae.

Maiden Erlegh lake has experienced a surge of excess algae on the surface of the water.

Earley Town Council have installed water pumps in an attempt to pump extra oxygen into the water to remove the algae, but their efforts have yet to be successful.

The town council has enlisted the help of the Environment Agency, who have told them to close off the lake for fishing until they decide it can be re-opened.

It's not known when the lake will be re-opened to fishermen, but Philip Truppin, Earley's town clerk, said he hopes the environment agency give the town council the all clear next week.

Mr Truppin said: "The lake is closed on advice from the Environment Agency. The water is being aerated by the Town Council and we are hoping for some lower temperatures and rainfall early next week."

Grahame Hawker, senior park ranger at the town council, said that the lack of rainfall has been a contributing factor to the rise of algae population on the lake.

Mr Hawker also advised dog walkers to keep their pets out of the lake and the neighbouring streams.