OFFICERS from the Environment Agency are investigating reports of dead fish on the Shropshire Union Canal in Middlewich.

Eyewitnesses have reported seeing hundreds of dead fish in the canal today, August 14.

In a post on the Middlewich Community Group on Facebook, one user described a ‘huge amount of dead fish in the Stanthorne stretch of the canal’.

One user commented: “I've just walked along the stretch by the breach and there were dozens of dead fish floating, a horrible scum floating on the surface, shoals of tiny fish swimming right on the surface and other fish jumping at the surface as though trying to get air.”

Northwich Guardian:

Another said: “There are now thousands of dead and dying fish on the Wardle to Stanthorne pound. The water is swarming with fish gasping for oxygen."

The Environment Agency has now confirmed it is investigating the incident.

In a post on twitter, Environment Agency north west said: “We have been made aware of reports of dead fish on the Shropshire Union Canal in Middlewich.

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“Our officers are working with the Canal and Rivers Trust to provide advice and guidance to help manage the incident and reduce any further impacts.”

The Middlewich canal was hit a similar incident involving 200 dead fish in April, which was caused by pollution.

Video and photos: John Hunt