It is my understanding that the herpes virus in Canvey Lake is not in itself deadly, although every credit must be given to the Echo for bringing this to prominent public attention as the seriousness of this condition must not be understated due to its recurring.

I suggest the fish died from suffocation and that the virus was discovered while the fish were being examined for cause of death.

Some years ago a small group of people sought to challenge the no fishing signs on the lake's banks. The majority of law abiding residents viewed this as being what is now called anti-social behaviour.

The law abiding residents complied with the council's granting of a fishing club licence, but many still harbour deep resentment.

I have long argued that Canvey Lake is not right for fishing as this body of water cannot sustain large quantities of fish and the numerous reported stories of fish deaths by suffocation over the years support my claims. Unfortunately, the fishing club runs at a profit so the dead fish are simply scooped up and the lake restocked. I find this offensive, these are animals not commodities.

Today Canvey has an abundance of councillors. Is there not one with the moral fibre to take a stand against this stain on Canvey social history and blatant cruelty that the granting of a fishing club licence is inflicting on the island and all the animals of Canvey Lake?

Bob Chapman
Ferrymead
Canvey