Visitors to a park in Marlow were greeted with the sight of overflowing sewage on Saturday after a blockage from public toilets nearby.

Thames Water confirmed they were called to deal with overflowing sewage caused by a blocked pipe in the sewer leading away from the toilets in Higginson Park.

After being confirmed as the utility company’s responsibility, the blockage was removed by Thames Water, but not before pools of raw sewage had flooded the Pound Lane area.

A reader described pools of raw sewage in the road, with vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians having to negotiate the hazard.

Thames Water spokesman Becky Trotman said: “On Saturday morning we were told about sewage in the street in Pound Lane and immediately went to investigate.

“We found the public toilets were overflowing due to a blockage in the sewer they’re connected to and this was cleared the same day. We’re now going to check for more blockages the area to reduce the risk of further problems." 

The toilets are operated by Wycombe District Council, and council staff have confirmed a contractor has fenced off the affected area in the park.

And the council says any remaining sewage will be cleaned up as soon as the ground has dried out sufficiently.

Thames Water has issued a reminder to residents to watch what they flush down toilets after the blockage.

Ms Trotman said: “The blockage we cleared on Saturday was a build-up of fat, oil and wipes so local people can also do their bit by disposing of these items in the bin and not down their sinks, drains and toilets.

“Our message is to bin it – don’t block it.”