Water quality standards have fallen in two more of Wales’ most protected river networks, meaning seven of the nine river systems are failing to meet phosphate level targets.

Environmental groups say “urgent action” is needed to tackle what they call “unacceptable” phosphate pollution in networks classes as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

Environment watchdog, Natural Resources Wales (NRW), says two river systems in north west Wales, Afon Gwyrfai and Afon Eden, both previously met phosphate targets but will now face further interventions to improve water quality.