Swimmers are being advised to avoid part of St Thomas Bay in Marsaskala after contaminated water, traced back to a nearby restaurant, entered the sea via a rainwater culvert.

In a statement, the Environmental Health Directorate said the discharge of foul water may have affected sea quality, potentially posing a risk to public health. As a precaution, swimming in the affected area is not recommended until further notice.

The issue was linked to a restaurant in the area, and necessary measures have already been taken to address the source of contamination. Warning signs have been installed to inform the public.

Authorities will continue to monitor water quality. Once it returns to safe levels, the signs will be removed and the public will be updated accordingly.