NEIGHBOURS have been left “extremely sad” after an oil tank ruptured and caused 5,000 litres of diesel to spill into a river.

The Environment Agency say 5,000 litres of diesel spilled into the River Lea, in Markfield Park, Tottenham, close to Walthamstow, on Wednesday, although it is not yet known what caused it to happen.

People first noticed “thick sludge” appearing in the water and now fear the swans, ducks and waterfowl could be destroyed by the gas.

Keith Fair, of Yarmouth Crescent, which overlooks the canal, noticed the spillage yesterday and says he has been feeling unwell due to the smell.

The 49-year-old said: “The strong diesel smell burned my eyes and made me feel sick.

“It had an overpowering effect on me, so I imagine it will be terrible for the wildlife.

“The River Lea runs into the Thames and then into the sea, so the diesel will flow there too.”

Mr Fair, who moved to Tottenham eight years ago, claims to have noticed diesel in the water before.

He said: “The first time I saw this was just after I came to this area and the wildlife was destroyed for a long time, as the swans were removed from the river.

“If this problem does not get sorted out soon, it will most likely happen again.”

The spill extends 2km downstream, as far as the Tottenham Lock.

Brenda Glancy, 67, visits the park twice a week and was “shocked” to see the black oil coating the water.

She said: “I think it is extremely sad because a lot of people go boating on the canal and young children play in the park.

“The park and river are lovely facilities for a very overcrowded area and so I do think it should be kept a lot cleaner.”

A spokesperson for The Environment Agency, who was not named, says the spillage is being dealt with.

They said: “We received reports of oil in the River Lea in Tottenham.

“Our officers have visited the site and the source of the pollution has now been confirmed as a ruptured oil tank.

“Thames Water Utilities Ltd worked with us to trace the source through the storm drains and have helped us contain the pollution.”

The agency said other parts of the river may have also been affected and are now looking into a plan of action.

Ian Tokelove, a spokesman for the London Wildlife Trust, highlighted the pollution could be “toxic” for the wildlife.

He said “Diesel and wildlife don’t mix so we’re pleased to see the Environment Agency and Thames Water working to contain this leak of diesel oil.

“Oil can coat feet, fur and feathers and can be toxic if ingested.”