VISITORS and residents in Dawlish are being reminded that fishing is not permitted in the Brook.

The latest warning comes after several people were seen fishing off the bridge in Manor Gardens.

A spokesman for Dawlish Town Council said: ‘The council is aware of reports of people fishing along the Brook (Dawlish Water).

‘Please do not fish in this area. This is for your own safety and to help protect the local environment.

‘Let’s keep everyone safe and protect our natural environment.’

Signage is in place warning people fishing is not allowed.

Last year, two of the resident Black Swans had to be saved after ingesting fishing lines.

Most fish species in the Brook are classed as freshwater which means a licence is usually be required, as well as permission from the landowner which is Teignbridge Council.

Anyone aged 13 or over must have a rod licence to fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish, smelt and eel.

The penalty for fishing without a valid licence can be a fine of up to £2,500.

Last year, Dawlish Town Council voted favour of introducing a bylaw to completely ban fishing on the Brook from Carpenters Bridge to the sea.

The council asked officers at Teignbridge Council and the Environment Agency to instigate such a ban.

Regular appeals are made to stop people fishing in the waterway but the warning signs continue to be flouted.

The Brook has a thriving population of fish.

It has asked that if someone is seen fishing there, to report it to the Waterfowl Wardens at: 07979 836300 or Devon-Cornwall Police (non-emergency) 101 or the Environment Agency on 03708 506 506