Mystery surrounds Sheffield pond where 100 fish were found dead

Mystery surrounds the death of around 100 fish at a Sheffield pond.

The fish were discovered at the Weston Park ponds on Sunday, when photos and comments were left on Facebook asking how this many fish had been killed.

It is not yet known how the fish had died, but many of speculated that the pond has an issue with blue green algae.

Locals commented that the pond had not been given enough maintenance over the years and that they weren't surprised to see what had happened.

A Sheffield Council officer explained that the fishes death may be explained by the warm weather.

A spokesperson from Sheffield Council told the Environmental Agency that such fish kills can occur during times of warm weather and is likely the result of low dissolved oxygen levels in the water at the pond (this happens in warm weather because plants in the water use more of the available oxygen).

The council also says it has put some measures in place to try and help.

The Environmental Agency has also stated that it will be working with the council and providing further advice.

A spokesperson from the Environmental Agency asked that all those who see incidents like this to report it to their incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

Many locals had speculated that whilst the weather had played it's part in the death, the maintenance of the pond could have also been a reason.

Tom Peckett said: "There are 100’s today and the pond is looking very green, I think it’s a combination of algae bloom because of the weather and pollution due to the amount of people feeding the ducks as there’s a lot of waste food and bread in the pond which will begin to rot and then pollute the water."

Jason Harris said: "The pond hasn't been looked after properly and those poor fish have paid the price. Just awful to see."

Whilst Laura Foxton said: "I used to love this pond with my dad when I was young, many happy memory. Hope it’s not a major problem and can be sorted."

The Environmental Agency have confirmed that they will continue to look into how the fish may have died.