Environment Agency Officers were alerted to the incident by local anglers who saw foam and dead fish on the surface of Elstead Steam, a tributary of the River Rother, during the afternoon of Tuesday 15 November 2005.

Immediately Environment Agency Officers arrived on site to locate the source of the pollution and to prevent any further discharge. A full investigation is currently taking place to find out how the incident occurred. Officers are still working to save the popular fishing stream from the effects of what they believe is pollution by detergent. Biologists will also be on site today to ascertain how many fish and eels have been killed.

Bob Jennings, Environment Management Team Leader, said: "Our initial investigations show that around 100 fish of various sizes have died as a result of this incident so far.

"Thanks to the anglers who notified us of this incident we were able to take immediate action to tackle the pollution. Our investigations into how the pollutant got into the stream are still ongoing and we are working tirelessly to save this popular watercourse.

"A full biological survey of the stream will take place today and then we will discover the extent of the damage caused to the stream and the life within it. Sadly, detergents can have a truly devastating effect on wildlife."

Members of the public can notify the Environment Agency of pollution incidents by contacting our 24-hour Emergency Hotline on 0800 807060.