Cause endless damage to wildlife and the system

WHAT a disgrace that this [chemical spill] has been allowed to happen and will cause endless damage to wildlife and the system, writes Michael Daine.

But its just one of many that happen... Many years ago I thought I'd take the kids for a cruise up to Wincham from our cottage at Soot Hill on the Trent & Mersey.

The odd dead fish

As we neared Marbury, around Jacksons turn, my son noticed the odd dead fish.

We passed the Salt Works and the sight became more concerning with dead fish everywhere. I turned around and headed back.

I met the local fishing warden and he explained that the Lostock Works had diverted polluted water into the canal (last time it occurred it had gone through the plant and cost them thousands of pounds).

He further explained they only found out after the local angling shop grew suspicious when ICI staff came in to buy, landing nets, lots of them! They were trying to dispose of all the fish carcasses before someone twigged.

Decimated for years

Despite their actions they were only fined about £3,000, the local fish stock and other wildlife were decimated for years but it saved them thousands.

There are numerous other incidents over the years, many go unreported.