FEARS have been raised for the safety of wildlife and fish after thieves dumped contaminated bread in Canvey Lake.

The incident means not only could toxic chemicals been introduced into the major waterway, but rats, attracted to the bread, will now be descending on the beauty spot.

Crooks stole four industrialsized sacks of outdated bread from bins outside Greggs bakery in Furtherwick Road, Canvey, before dumping them in the lake, off Denham Road.

The loaves, stolen last Friday, are thought to have been contaminated with cleaning chemicals which were also in the bin, making them unsuitable for human consumption.

Serious concerns have now been raised over the effect the contaminants could have on local wildlife, such as swans and carp, which are known to inhabit the area.

Canvey Town Council, which is responsible for the lake, has also been forced to introduce a rodent control officer following a surge in the number of vermin at the lake.

Ellea Hunt, the town council’s deputy clerk, said: “Speaking with the manager of the bakery, she explained all produce is contaminated before it is put into the bins so it is not fit for human consumption.

“This raises the concern that this contaminant may now also have been introduced into the Canvey Lake watercourse.

“In addition to this possible water pollution, we are also experiencing a problem with increased rodent numbers at this location and have instructed a rodent control officer to manage this.

“This recent incident will not only hamper our efforts to control this problem, but may have added to it by providing these vermin with access to an unlimited food source.

“This act of flytipping is damaging not only to the environment, but is impeding the council’s efforts to improve both the quality of the water and surrounding area for the benefit of wildlife that inhabit it, the residents bounding it and the visitors to this location.”

Canvey Lake has repeatedly fallen victim to flytipping, with the council frequently removing sacks of rubbish, as well as furniture, televisions and even quad bikes from the waters.

Ms Hunt added: “The council is asking for people to be vigilant and if any further incidents of flytipping or acts of antisocial behaviour are witnessed at Canvey Lake, that they please report it as a matter of urgency to put a stop to any future decimation of this beautiful reserve.”

Greggs declined to comment.

If anyone has any information regarding the incident, contact the town clerk on 01268 683965 or e-mail clerk@canveyisland-tc.

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