Avoid strenuous activity as parts of south east air pollution graded very high

While overall Newbury and Thatcham are currently at moderate levels of six, according to data provided by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) other parts of towns and cities near busy roads in the south east have been graded at eight.
Initial forecasts released by the Met Office said the high levels of pollution yesterday (Wednesday) - at seven on the 10-point scale - were expected to reduced to moderate to low levels today, however the warning has in fact become higher.
Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, are urged to avoid strenuous physical activity today in areas with a 10 rating, particularly outside, while people with asthma may find an increased need to use inhaler medication.
Older people and anyone who develops a cough or sore throat are also advised to avoid physical activity.
The high levels of air pollution experienced this week are said to be due to dust blown from the Sahara Desert, local emissions, light winds and pollution from Europe.
The map, provided by Defra, shows the latest air pollution measurements taken at 7am today (Thursday).