People have been advised not to enter the water at Ballygally beach in County Antrim after sampling found raised levels of E. coli.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs issued the temporary advice on Friday afternoon. A spokesperson for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said on social media that a recent bathing water sample had produced a higher than acceptable result and that the public should stay out of the water until levels return to acceptable.

E. coli are bacteria that normally live in human and animal intestines. Some strains can cause severe illness and infections outside the gut. Heavy rainfall can wash bacteria from agricultural run-off and sewage discharges into rivers and coastal waters, pushing up levels.

In Northern Ireland, DAERA can advise against bathing when E. coli concentrations exceed 1,250 colony forming units per 100 millilitres. The department said bathers should watch for signs posted by the bathing water operator for specific guidance.