Experts say algae may have starved the fish of oxygen

Officers from the Environment Agency are now working to save thousands more thought to be at risk.

Water samples have been taken for analysis from a 150-metre stretch of the canal, close to Kidlington Green Lock.

But agency officials say it is likely the recent hot weather is responsible for a large growth in algae which has cut the amount of oxygen in the water.

Aerators have been installed along the banks to try to pump oxygen into the canal.