A DEALER in fresh water fish has described his horror at discovering about 30 koi carp poisoned by vandals.

Despite his efforts, Stanley Douglas was only able to save three fish - losing about £4,000 worth of koi.

Mr Douglas who arrived at his business premises Douglas Brothers Nursery, in Pennyfine Road, Sunniside, Gateshead, yesterday morning, said: "That anyone could have done anything like this defies all explanation.

"When I first saw what had happened I was dumbfounded, and then discovered that it was down to foul play.

"My first reaction was to do what I could for the fish. I dumped all the water and put then in fresh water, but only managed to save three."

Mr Douglas said the fish had been in a holding tank - most of them ready to be taken by customers who had already bought them.

A police spokesman said: "A glass panel had been removed from the side of the greenhouse in which the tank was housed.

"It is believed the fish were poisoned with an unknown substance. We are appealing for anyone with information to contact us."

Anyone who can help is asked to contact the police on 0191-454 7555 ext 64386.