THE River Lea is Britain’s most polluted waterway, according to a new study.

Environmental charity Thames 21, which commmisioned the research, said waterways in and around Waltham Forest are being “devastated” by pollution.

Testing carried out by Queen Mary University showed the Lea is full of poisons from polluted water which flows into it.

Dagenham Brook, which straddles Walthamstow and Leyton, was found to have high levels of phosphates, which is a sign that chemicals from homes and sewage are entering the river.

The charity said the Ching in Chingford is also spoiled by chemicals and high levels of sewage.

Thames 21 has started the Love the Lea campaign to raise awareness of pollution caused through the drainage system and sewage overflows.