Appeal to anglers over fishy business

Koi carp and rainbow trout have mysteriously been placed in the lake at Springfield Mill Park, in Morley, Leeds, and are endangering its population of tadpoles, newts and frogs.

The Friends of Springfield Mill Park spent 10,000 turning the pond into a natural habitat for the area's wildlife but that is at risk unless the unwanted species can be moved out. Members of the Friends have been in touch with the Environment Agency which have recommended the unwelcome fish are moved. The Friends are hoping local anglers will come forward and help to fish them out.

The habitat, completed in February, is to be studied by local schoolchildren. It is thought builders may have released the koi, unaware of the problems they may cause, however, the trout origins are a mystery.

Anyone who can help should contact the Friends via their website www.springfieldpark.org.uk