THE Environment Agency has issued a statement after residents were alarmed to see dead fish at Sutton Mill Dam.

The Star was contacted today (Monday) by several concerned visitors to the dam who came across the shocking sight in the water.

The Environment Agency confirmed that they attended the location today to investigate the matter.

St Helens Star: Dead fish were seen in the waterDead fish were seen in the water (Image: Submitted)

'We believe this is a natural event'

A spokesperson said they believe the dead fish to have been the result of a "natural event" due to the recent hot weather.

READ > Drainage investigation works to begin at flooding hotspot

The Environment Agency spokesperson said: “This morning (June 12), we received reports of thousands of fish in distress at Sutton Mill Dam, St Helens from concerned members of the public.

"We take swift action to protect people and the environment, and our officers have been on site investigating today.

"We believe that this is a natural event caused by high temperatures and low atmospheric pressure as a result of thunderstorms, causing low dissolved oxygen levels."

St Helens Star: The EA said the incident was a natural eventThe EA said the incident was a natural event (Image: Submitted)

They added: “Members of the public who spot fish in distress should report this to our 24/7 incident hotline 0800 80 70 60.”