The discovery of dead fish and sewage has seen a section of beach closed off to the public.

Experts have taken samples from Swalecliffe Brook and the neighbouring beach after members of the public alerted water officials last week.

The cause of the sewage leak is not yet known and the area will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

A statement from Southern Water said: “Southern Water and the Environment Agency have conducted investigations into the possible causes for the leak in Swalecliffe and have concluded it is not a result of any damage or fault with Southern Water’s assets or sewers in the area.

“We continue to conduct CCTV surveys of the area. Our initial findings have led us to believe that the discharge is a result of an illegal connection from a wastewater drain into the surface water sewer network.

“We will continue to help both the Environment Agency and Canterbury City Council in confirming the source of the pollution.”

The Environment Agency confirmed it took samples from the brook as well as the beach.

A statement from the agency said: “Southern Water notified us on the evening of Saturday, September 3, that members of the public had reported dead fish in Swalecliffe Brook.

“We have taken samples and they have been sent to be tested.”