POPULAR beaches have been closed at a Brit holiday hotspot after an oil spill from a tanker washed up onshore.

The disgusting thick black ooze has affected two bays of Gibraltar, with environmental authorities issuing a serious health warning.

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The spillage reportedly happened yesterday morning near the southern region of Poniente anchorage and has since spread.

As a result, Camp Bay and Little Bay have been put on "red alert".

Both idyllic inlets teem with tourists and are usually full of keen bathers who enjoy the crystal clear water.

However, local authorities have urged all swimmers to exercise caution if entering the water.

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Boaters and recreational fishers close to the area have also been warned.

The bungled operation reportedly happened when the vessel, Gas Venus, was taking on fuel and experienced an overflow of its tanks.

The amount of oil spilt into the sea has not been quantified.

A Government of Gibraltar spokesman told the Olive Press the incident was being closely monitored and a contingency plan was in place.

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Operations at the port in Poniente anchorage have also been suspended, it was reported.

Spanish authorities have been notified.

The incident has been slammed by a local Ecologists in Action group.

Speaking to Europa Press, Antonio Muñoz said large-scale operations should not be happening so close to shore.

He called for "extreme caution" and claimed the spillage happened because "the safety systems did not work".

It comes as beachgoers have been warned to stay out of the water at a popular tourist beach due to high pollution.

While earlier this week, four Spanish beaches were closed due to a "mystery substance".

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