WALKERS were left horrified after seeing poachers target a beauty spot lake- pulling fish out the water and killing them before taking them home.

The poaching, which has been taking place at Cherry Orchard Country Park in Rochford over the past week, has seen groups gather at the water’s edge to catch the fish, before “stomping on their heads” and leaving the premises with them.

Rochford Council has now been forced to take action and have stepped up patrols in the area, after receiving reports of a number of incidents at the site off Cherry Orchard Way.

Kimberley O’Connell has joined fellow residents in speaking out about the ordeal, which took place just by her home.

The 45-year-old from St Laurence, said: “It’s just awful, I’ve had three people message me about it this week alone. I couldn’t believe it when I heard.

“It happened Monday and by the sounds of it near enough every other day this week too, mostly in the early evenings and afternoon when it’s quiet.

“Fishing at the lake for a start is bad enough, but to have people pulling the poor fish out and stamping on their heads to take home is just abuse.

“Every single one they caught they were doing it to. 

“I live over the back of the park, it’s usually such a nice place- for the kids to see it is just awful, I was in shock myself.

“I’m told they looked like they didn’t want to be watched doing it, but thankfully as soon as one of the residents realised what they were up to they called the Environmental Agency straight away.”

Rochford Council has confirmed fishing is not allowed at the park.

A spokesman said: “We are aware of a few incidents of poaching and are working with the Environment Agency to undertake enforcement patrols of the site.”

An Environment Agency spokesperson, said: “The taking of fish without permission is a criminal offence and should be reported to the police. Anyone witnessing people taking and killing fish should immediately call 999. 

“Anyone with concerns should call us on our 24-hour emergency incident line on 0800 807060.”