DEAD FISH DISCOVERED

Around 400 fish are believed to have died after sewage entered the water and the Environment Agency has launched a probe.

Officers believe sewage has entered the water at the haven, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Ramsar site of international conservation importance. Environment Agency Officers were called out after receiving reports from members of the public about dead fish.

Environment Officers attended and immediately started an investigation into the incident.

The full extent of damage is not yet known but the Environment Agency's Ecological Appraisal team yesterday estimated that at least 400 fish have died.

Environment Officer Liz Wood, said, "Unfortunately it looks like hundreds of fish have died at this internationally recognised site.

"Sewage entering a river or stream can have a devastating effect on the wildlife living there. Nutrients in the sewage can break down and use up oxygen in the water, making it hard for fish to breathe.

"We take incidents like this extremely seriously and are launching a full and thorough investigation to establish exactly how sewage entered Wallers Haven and if this is what has killed these fish.

"This is an unfortunate reminder to anyone who handles polluting matter that they take care to ensure that there is no risk to the environment."

To report a pollution incident contact the Environment Agency 24 hour Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60.