THE Environment Agency was called out to High Legh Fisheries following reports of fish in distress.

Members of Warrington Angling Association contacted the agency last Thursday to inform fisheries officers that there was an issue with low oxygen levels due to falling leaves at the site, off Caldwells Gate Lane.

Aeration equipment has been used at the site for the past few days to boost oxygen levels and members of the angling club have taken it in turns to monitor the situation.

A heavy leaf fall into a fishery can result in an enormous requirement for oxygen. Once leaves reach the bed of the fishery the rotting process that breaks them down consumes a considerable amount of oxygen – often more than the fish consume.

Lyn Lythgoe, from Warrington Angling Association, said: “Luckily one of our members was on site and was able to report it to the Environment Agency right away.

“We have lost a few carp, but fortunately it’s not been too bad because they were able to come out to us really quickly with aerators, so we should be back to normal soon.

“We always ask members to report anything that they see at our sites directly to the Environment Agency so that they can respond as soon as possible.”

On the Environment Agency’s Twitter account a statement about the incident reads: “Our staff work 24/7 to protect people and wildlife and rescuing fish is part of the Environment Agency’s fisheries management role, funded by fishing licence income.

“If you spot an environmental incident in your local area, report it to us on our hotline 0800 807 060.”