A clampdown on illegal fishing has been launched after a series of incidents near Banbury.

After a raid on a fishery in Aynho over the Bank Holiday weekend, the Environment Agency is planning to prosecute seven anglers, including five from Oxford, for a number of offences - poisoning fish, illegally removing fish from a waterway, fishing without a rod licence, and giving false names and addresses.

Fisheries enforcement officers also swooped on another pair of illegal anglers after a tip-off.

The two were found committing offences on June 30 on a remote stream that feeds into the River Cherwell at Aynho.

Environment Agency officer Dennis Welling said: "The agency and the police consider wildlife, fishery, and conservation offences very seriously. We will not hesitate to prosecute those responsible."

"The public should not be frightened of passing on information as it will be kept confidential at all times. If you see something suspicious, contact us as soon as possible."

Pc Glynne Malkin, Northamptonshire Police rural liaison officer, added: "I urge the public to make note of vehicle registration numbers, descriptions of offenders, and details of what happened. On no account should people approach offenders themselves or warn them they have contacted us."

The Environment Agency's 24-hour emergency number is 0800 807060.

Non-urgent information can also be sent via dennis.welling@environment-agency.gov.uk