Carp thieves force Radbrook Pool to install CCTV

Bosses at a Shropshire fishing pool have been forced to install a CCTV system to stop thieves after at least £20,000 of prized fish was stolen, angling chiefs said today.

An estimated 20 carp have been taken from Radbrook Pool, near Shrewsbury, over a three-year period.

Local angling bosses said in some of the cases fish were believed to be sold on or eaten after being stolen.

It has led to action being taken with cameras rigged up to monitor activity around the site to prevent fish - some weighing 25lbs with a market value of £2,500 - being taken.

John Roberts, chairman and head bayliff of Shropshire Anglers Federation, said anyone found trying to steal fish from the pond would be prosecuted.

He said: "There is a history of problems at Radbrook Pool with people taking fish from the water, but we have now taken action to stop it happening.

"We have a CCTV camera to monitor people fishing at the site and a police officer now joins us on joint patrols to make sure people are fishing legally."

Anyone wishing to fish in licensed pools in Shrewsbury requires an Environment Agency licence, a Shropshire Anglers Federation permit and a day permit for the specific site.

Mr Roberts said fish theft was a "national problem" but it happened a lot in Shropshire.

"About 20 carp have gone missing from Radbrook Pool over the space of about two to three years and more have been taken from the River Severn," he said.

"The 10lb carp can fetch anything between £300 and £500 and the larger 25lb carp can go for £2,500. But action is being taken now and the next person to be caught will be prosecuted."