Pollution sparks exercise warning

POLLUTION has reached such high levels that a warning was put out yesterday telling people to avoid strenuous outdoor exercise.

The Government’s UK-AIR website forecast a rare episode of ‘very high’ pollution ranked 10/10 for potential harm in London – the first such rating in the city since March 2018.

The poor air quality was due to an area of high pressure covering western Europe, which meant pollutants were not blown away and were able to build up. The forecast was first spotted by non-profit organisation Clean Air in London, which posted warnings on Twitter.

UK-AIR said on its website a pollution rating of ten poses a particular risk to adults and children with heart or lung problems, and older people. It told them to ‘avoid strenuous physical activity’.

Critics suggested the Government should warn people not to drive polluting vehicles rather than telling people not to breathe air outside.