Thousands of fish have been found dead in the Oxford Canal around Banbury after a drop in oxygen levels.

It was first reported to authorities yesterday evening, Tuesday, June 13 after a large number of fish were spotted floating at the top of the canal.

Fish had been seen gasping for air by the lock near The Mill Arts Centre with reports of thousands of dead fish being found today (June 14).

The recent rainfall is believed to have washed pollutants from drains into the water causing the issue.

A dead lamb has also been pictured in the canal near The Light cinema but it is not clear if this is related to the water pollution.

Matt Armitage, who works at Tooley's Boatyard, says the canal is in the worst state he has seen it in 33 years.

Oxford Mail: Thousands of fish reported dead in Oxford Canal

He said: “I first become aware of it yesterday evening when we started getting reports of people saying there are lots of dead fish everywhere.

"It just seemed to be getting worse and worse. By the time I left last night someone counted over 300 fish.

“This morning I think all the fish in the canal are dead.

“The current thinking is the torrential rain we had has washed all the nitrates out of the fields into the canal, as well as sewage out of the drains.

“I have been here on the canal for 33 years and have never seen anything like this before.

“It’s quite toxic, the fish are decaying. There is an oil flicker from the fish.”

The Canal & River Trust is planning on putting aerators into the canal to increase the oxygen levels in the pond.

Speaking to Banbury FM, one of the trust’s environmental scientists Chantal Dave, said: “During this time a lot of pollutants and dirt gets accumulated in drains and then when you get a sudden influx of water it flushes it all suddenly like high concentrations of pollutants and chemicals that then get flushed into our waterways.

“Unfortunately, this then reacts with the oxygen in the water and takes the oxygen out which means the oxygen levels in the water reduces which effectively suffocates the fish."

Locals have also reported the issues to The Environment Agency, which is assisting The Canal & River Trust in the clean-up.

A spokesperson person said: “The Environment Agency was notified on Monday evening of an incident involving dead fish on the Oxford Canal around Banbury.

“Our officers are working with the Canal & River Trust who are leading on this incident.

“The Environment Agency remains in contact with our partners to support if required.

“Members of the public who spot fish in distress should report this to our 24/7 incident hotline 0800807060.”