A STRETCH of the River Weaver in Winsford is filled with dead carp, believed to be caused by the heatwave which has hit the UK.

Fisheries officers for the Environment Agency were at the river in Meadowbank today, working to prevent further harm to fish.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “There does not appear to be any sign of pollution in the water.

"There is a substantial amount of duckweed along the river which does appear to be causing oxygen levels to drop in the water itself.

“Although we cannot rule anything out at the moment, our initial investigations suggest that the fish have been affected by a combination of ongoing dry weather, stress through spawning and a high amount of duckweed in the water.

"We are working closely with our partners at the Canal and River Trust to prevent further impact.”

Similar problems in canals and rivers throughout the country have been reported in the media, with the Environment Agency working to rescue distressed fish in low-level waters. 

Sir James Bevan, Chief Executive Environment Agency said: "The water that comes from the tap is taken from our rivers and reservoirs and the amount we use has a direct effect on people and the environment around us.

"As we prepare for drought in the north west and dry weather continues around the country, we have stepped up our response to minimise wastage and tackle the impacts of low river flows on wildlife.

"We all have a part to play to protect this precious resource. I expect water companies to step up their efforts to ensure supplies are well-managed and people at home should use water wisely."