Swimmers have been told to avoid a huge stretch of the Teesside coast after burst pipe spewed sewage into the water.
The Environment Agency has issued advice against bathing in the North Sea off Hartlepool, Seaton Carew, Redcar, Marske and Saltburn.
Hartlepool Borough Council said: "This is a precautionary measure relating to a discharge of untreated sewage into the River Tees due to a burst sewer pipe in Middlesbrough."
Emergency works are being carried out by Northumbria Water and the situation is under review of the Environment Agency.
Alec Brown, Labour leader of Redcar and Cleveland Council, said: "I am extremely disappointed that residents and visitors have been advised not to bathe at our beaches because of a sewage incident.
"Our coastline is one of Redcar and Cleveland's greatest assets, and people rightly expect to be able to enjoy it safely, particularly during the summer months. This situation is simply not acceptable.
"The Environment Agency's advice must be taken seriously, and I would urge everyone to avoid bathing at the affected beaches until it is confirmed that the water is safe again.
"Residents deserve clean, safe bathing waters, and I will continue to press for answers and keep the public informed as the situation develops."
