The call comes after a prompt response by Environment Agency staff to reports of dead fish in a Whittlesey watercourse saved hundreds of other fish.

The rescue operation took place after more than 500 fish, including roach, pike and perch, died at the Moreton's Leam stream due to a lack of oxygen.

Staff used oxygenating equipment to save the others, after being alerted to the problem by a passerby.

The Environment Agency said low air pressure during intense thunderstorms removed oxygen from the water.

Manfai Tang from the Environment Agency said: "More than 500 fish were killed due to lack of oxygen, however more deaths were prevented by our prompt response, which only happened due to a quick report made by a member of the public."

Moreton's Leam is located in the Nene Washes, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is home to the spined loach fish.

Anyone who sees dead fish, fish in distress, or pollution in rivers and streams should call the Environment Agency emergency hotline on 0800 80 70 60 as quickly as possible.