Conservationists say the loss of fish at Pells Lake is 'massive'

Water levels have fallen at Pells Lake in Lewes as drought has tightened its grip across South East England after months of low rainfall.

Lewes Town Council has diverted water from the aquifer which serves Pells outdoor swimming pool to the lake and is looking at other possible solutions.

Sussex Ouse Conservation Society said the number of dead fish was "massive".

Large eels

It said dead fish were also being found in the lower reaches of the River Ouse.

One angler said fish such as large eels, carp and tench had all been found dead.

"A lot of this is due to the succession of long, dry winters," said Jim Smith of Sussex Ouse Conservation Society.

"The water flow into the lake has been affected and the oxygen level for the fish that are left is very, very low because there is no water to replace it."