A LASER has been installed at Redditch’s Arrow Valley Lake to protect thousands of new fish that were recently dropped into the lake.

Along with the Angling Trust and the Environment Agency, Redditch Council has provided grants to Redditch Federation of Anglers to stop predator birds eating the fishes.

Over the last few years the stock of fish at the lake has been dwindling because of predation by Cormorants, an aquatic bird.

But the federation members has now installed a laser device to deter the birds.

The group has also repaired and introduced fish refuges in the lake.

Redditch Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for leisure and cultural services, Cllr Mike Rouse, said: “We are proud to offer a first-class angling experience here in Redditch, drawing people from all over the country.

“This means we need to maintain our high standards and invest in the lake so it can be enjoyed by everyone for years to come.

“For a relatively small cost – shared by the council and the Angling Trust – we are providing a lot of benefit.”

Redditch Anglers’ secretary John Bushell said: “These actions we hope will help to restore the quality of fishing on the lake to something like it was about three to four years ago following a decline, mainly caused by cormorant predation.

“The new fish, mainly roach and bream will augment the existing stocks of larger bream and carp and hopefully restore the lake to its former status as one of the best 'natural' fishing venues in the Midlands area.”