FOREST of Dean Angling Club says they are confident they have fixed 95 per cent of a leak which threatened the future of the fish at Lightmoor Pond.

Since January work has been underway at the Cinderford site to stop the leak and finish three pegs to make them disabled-friendly.

So far the Forest of Dean Angling Club, who rent the ponds from the Forestry Commission, has spent £14,000 from its own pot and donations from three local councils.

Fisheries management officer, John Beddis said: “While we are confident 95 per cent of the leak has been fixed, there is still five per cent we have to sort. If we leave it then it will slowly get worse and cause a major problem.

“Therefore we are appealing for more funding, which we estimate to cost at least £25,000, to completely finish everything including re-claying the shale bank and reinstate another three fishing pegs.

“In the meantime people can continue fishing the ponds. The water level is back up to spring level and holding which is very good news as last summer it dropped by more than four feet.

“In terms of restocking the ponds with fish, we need to have a water survey to determine the state of the environment. There are so many considerations – unfortunately it’s not as straightforward as digging a hole in the ground, filling it with water and putting fish in there.

“The club would sincerely appreciate any donations the community can give.”

John also mentioned that since his appeal to build a junior match team he has since had three people get in touch.

He added: “I still want to build up a team. If anybody wishes to get involved call John on 07714956395.”