LIVE fish have been found flapping around on a grass embankment among a bag of dead fish in Popley.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after more than 30 Koi Carp were found dumped in a grassy area.

The fish - some of which were more than three feet long - were discovered by a dog walker at around 9.40pm on Sunday [December1] dumped down a grassed embankment off Abbey Road.

The member of the public noticed live fish flapping among the dead but when they returned moments later with a torch and bucket of water all were sadly dead.

The fish were found alongside a large white builder’s material bag, which is thought to have been tipped down the embankment.

RSPCA Inspector Sharon Chrisp, who is now investigating for the animal welfare charity, said: “We do not know how long the fish had been left in the bag, nor where they have come from but so many large fish would have likely been a key feature of any fish enthusiast’s pond and will be noticeably missing.

“Fish can experience pain, suffering and distress and would do so if taken out of water. Sadly we believe these Koi Carp did suffer as some of the fish were still thought to be alive at the time they were first discovered.”

Koi Carp are generally kept for decorative purposes in outdoor Koi ponds or water gardens.

If anyone has any information about where these fish have come from they are asked to get in touch with the RSPCA by calling 0300 123 8018.

For more information about caring for fish, please visit www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/fish.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit their website for more imformation about volunteering and supporting the organisation.