POLICE have joined forces with the Environment Agency to tackle the ongoing issue of fish poaching after an illegal crayfish trap was discovered at a local syndicate lake in the Warminster area.

South Wiltshire PCSO Matt Smith and Environment Agency Officer Jim Allan were visiting Horword Pond in Warminster when they found the unauthorised illegal crayfish trap attached to a fishing platform at the lake.

The trap was seized and investigations into identifying the owner of the trap are ongoing. Police are keen to speak to anyone with information.

PCSO Matt Smith said: “We take all reports of this type of crime seriously and will continue to work with partners like the Environment Agency to tackle these offences in a robust manner.

“Fish poaching has a negative impact on local angling communities and a financial impact on fishing clubs and syndicates who have to replace any fish taken.

“If anyone saw anything suspicious around the Horward Pond area, or any individuals potentially setting crayfish traps please contact police on 101 or alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”