By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Volunteers have been thanked as a leak-stricken canal sees its normal water level return after an emergency.
Concerns were raised last week that water levels had dropped between the Newtown and Blunder locks of the Stroudwater Navigation.
Residents raised concerns at the time that “fish were dying due to the lowering water levels”.
However, canal chiefs say they saw no dead fish the canal while social media posts stated anglers moved fish to the other side of the lock.
A Portadam was installed at Blunder Lock by the afternoon of May 16 and the water rose to three quarters full along the affected stretch. The water level was later restored to its usual level over the weekend.
Cotswold Canals Connected thanked the community for their help during the leak.
“Following the installation of a Portadam on Friday, the stretch of canal affected by a leak has been restored to its usual level during the weekend,” a Cotswold Canals Connected spokesperson said.
“Cotswold Canals Connected has been aware throughout this incident and since water levels started dropping they were closely monitored by volunteers.
“No dead fish were observed in the canal, but we are aware of social media posts stating how anglers moved fish on to the other side of the lock.
“Volunteers and community goodwill towards the canal play a key role in caring for a cherished community asset, and we are grateful for everyone’s continued support.”