Hundreds of fish gathering in the Rudhall Brook have been spotted by local residents over the last few days just as they were seen at the same time last year.

In December last year the Ross Gazette reported that many people were concerned that so many fish had congregated in a small section of the brook.

At the time the Environment Agency sent out a team to investigate but they told the Ross Gazette that the fish were giving no cause for concern as they were moving freely and all looked healthy.

The Ross Gazette contacted the EA again and a spokesperson said it was a matter of great interest to their scientists although, once again, the fish are not giving cause for concern. She added that it is not the same fish returning but a new group.

Chris Bainger, fisheries expert from the Environment Agency said: “Thanks to our vigilant twitter followers we were made aware of a large number of juvenile Chub, Dace and Roach once again congregating in the Rudhall Brook, Ross on Wye.

“The fish are not in distress; they are healthy and are swimming freely in and out of the brook.

“This is quite an interesting phenomenon, it happened at the exact same time last year and we’re calling on our fish scientists and experts from across the country to find out if this happens elsewhere or whether it’s unique to this location.

“We are monitoring closely and carrying out extra checks to gather data that could help us better understand why this happens.

“If any member of the public notice any fish in distress please contact our Incident Hotline on 0870 80 70 60.”