A CONCERNED resident has launched an appeal to raise awareness about increased fish thefts.

Marc Francis, secretary of the Connah’s Quay Angling Club, said he has seen an increase in fish thefts in the Connah’s Quay and Broughton area and these ponds are protected by the club.

He said: “If this continues it could potentially ruin things for the club, if we did nothing about it and people keep taking our fish then there’s nothing left for the club.

“We are trying to teach kids the skills of fishing and it’s not fair on them either. It seems to be a massive problem throughout the whole of Flintshire to be honest, not just in our ponds.

“I understand some people may be used to catching fish and taking them home to eat, but over here it’s catch and release.”

The secretary told the Leader last month people were caught taking fish and throwing them in bushes and again lately, with the offenders swimming in the pool, which is not allowed.

He said people are also stealing the lily pads which is part of the habitat and it is ruining their conservation project. The main areas of concern are the Old Warren in Broughton and the Rosie Pool in Wepre Park.

Marc wants to raise awareness and spread the word so more people will report incidents such as this.

He added: “They need to respect the laws, we own the fish so it’s like someone coming in your house and robbing stuff out the house, so I want to get the awareness out there and let the public know what is going on.

"The more reports NRW receive, it justifies them to get more bailiffs and more feet on the ground which is what we need."

If anyone sees anything suspicious then they can contact the police, Natural Resources Wales or the Connah’s Quay Angling Club.

A spokesman for North Wales Police said they had reports on May 27 of alleged poaching at the ponds and anyone with information should call 101, quoting reference W069886.

DC Eryl Lloyd, who is seconded from North Wales Police Rural Crime Team to Natural Resources Wales, said looking after fish populations in Wales is a big priority.

He added: “We are investigating a case of illegal fishing at Wepre Country Park, Connah’s Quay, working closely with the Angling Club and North Wales Police.

“All anglers must follow the rules and those caught fishing illegally risk a criminal conviction as well as a fine. We want everyone to be able to enjoy Wales’ natural resources and encourage anyone with an interest in fishing to work with us by purchasing a rod licence.”

Rod licences can be purchased at www.gov.uk or at your local post office.