HUNDREDS of dead fish were seen floating in a lake at a popular park.

Horrified families were left shocked after spotting the distressing scene at Wat Tyler Park, in Pitsea.

The Environment Agency has confirmed reports of dead fish at the park’s lake.

Staff on site told the Echo they could not comment on the issue.

A dog walker spotted the fish and contacted the Echo out of concern.

The mum-of-two who asked to remain anonymous said: “I was out with my dog having a nice little walk around the lake and saw the fish.

“There were hundreds of dead carp all floating on the surface of the water.

“I’ve never seen so many dead fish, it was awful and very distressing.

“I reported it to a ranger at the park.”

She added: “I don’t know what it was that killed them but something obviously isn’t right there in the lake.”

Charlotte Davies, 30, from Billericay added: “We spent the day there yesterday and had a lovely day.

“We didn’t see any dead fish but I think it’s sad and a shame.

“I wouldn’t want my young children to see anything like this as they would find it very upsetting.

“I really hope there isn’t a big problem or issue, we love spending time there; it’s a lovely park.

“We need to look after our wildlife and I hope this is sorted out very soon.”

An Environment Agency spokesman said: “We have been made aware of a number of dead fish in the lake at Wat Tyler Country Park.

“Anyone with concerns about this location should contact Basildon Council, which manages this site.

“If requested, we will support the council as its officers investigate.”

Basildon Council was contacted for comment but no response was received.