THIS unusual weed harvester has been ploughing up and down the saltwater lake in Poole Park to good effect.

Work to rid the lake of reeds will be appreciated by those who use it for their model boats. “The weeds have become so bad that racing has become impossible,” said one.

Kate Langdown, Borough of Poole street scene services manager said: “Work on cutting the weeds from Poole Park’s saltwater lake began last week, to prevent problems for boats and other craft using the lake.

“We hired specially designed weed harvesting boats to carry out the work in the 40 acre lake.

“Throughout the year we continue to monitor the lake and operate a programme of lake flushing, dye applications and barley straw to tackle the weed issue.”

Lake flushing was due to take place overnight on Friday to raise the salinity level of the lake due to an increase in midge numbers.

“This work will not affect people’s enjoyment of the lake and the water-based activities available in the park are continuing as normal,” she said.