The Countryside Alliance has called for a more responsible approach from industry, following a chemical spill which has polluted five kilometres of the Taf Fechan in South Wales. It has been estimated that 1,000 wild brown trout and other species will die as a result of the spill.

Three tonnes of aluminium sulphate were released into the Taf Fechan in a stretch which had only recently been rejuvenated after a similar incident in 2001. The rejuvenation of the river was due to the hard work of the Merthyr Tydfil Angling Association.

Charles Jardine, the Countryside Alliance’s angling advisor urged: “People simply must stop seeing rivers and water-courses as communal tips. These beautiful areas are habitats teeming with life and must be cared for and nurtured. This spill is especially tragic as the tireless work of local anglers and clubs like The Merthyr Tydfil Angling Association had brought about a minor miracle in rejuvenating this and other rivers in the area. For this pollution to happen is irresponsible and negligent.”

The Countryside Alliance backs the work of organisations such as the Anglers Conservation Association, the newly formed Federation of Welsh Anglers and the Environment Agency, as well as local anglers who assist them in their excellent work. These groups’ work has been vital in regenerating this water and also help to protect many others in sensitive areas in Wales.