Checks have been carried out at a popular park to ensure fishing licenses are in order as improvements continue to be made.

Lowestoft Journal: Fen Park, Lowestoft.Fen Park, Lowestoft.

Environment Agency bailiff Nick Beardmore was at Fen Park, a private water in Kirkley near Lowestoft, to ensure that fishermen were carrying the necessary license.

The checks were part of an ongoing partnership between Fen Park Friends (FPF) and the environment agency, which was formed after the park experienced a string of illegal fishing and has proved successful over the past four years.

The park has also received a visit from Steve Lane, the Environment Agency's Fisheries Technical Specialist.

Mr Lane found high levels of fish on the surface of the water, discolouration of the water and high levels of weed within the lake,

Lowestoft Journal: Fen Park Friends youth chairman Lewis Hurren accepting the oxygen testing kit from Steve Lane. Picture: Clare StrachanFen Park Friends youth chairman Lewis Hurren accepting the oxygen testing kit from Steve Lane. Picture: Clare Strachan (Image: Clare Strachan)

It was also discovered that there were low oxygen levels within the lake, a potential danger to the fish.

However, Mr Lane managed to source an oxygen meter on loan from the environment agency so that levels in the lake can be continually monitored. The subsequent readings can now be used to collate an accurate record over a period of time.

A spokesman from FPF thanked Mr Lane for providing them with the kit.

In the coming weeks, FPF will be working with the environment agency to form a management plan for the lake area to enable us to carry out maintenance and obtain funding. A draft will be drawn up and presented to Norse and Waveney District Council for approval.

Lowestoft Journal: Fen Friends Park chairman James Hurren, Nick Beardmore and Clare Strachan. Picture: Clare StrachanFen Friends Park chairman James Hurren, Nick Beardmore and Clare Strachan. Picture: Clare Strachan (Image: Clare Strachan)

FPF expressed their thanks to Mr Beardmore and Mr Lane for their continued support.

Meanwhile, the friends have also formed a youth committee, headed by 14-year-old Lewis Hurren.

The youngster is dedicated to working alongside the adult committee to improve the park and help out with regular maintenance within the park. Over time, Lewis hopes to gain more members for the youth committee to help with organising events and obtaining funding specifically for young people in the local area.

If you would like to find out more information about Fen Park Friends, visit their Facebook page or contact Clare Strachan on 07730789999.

Lowestoft Journal: Steve Lane testing oxygen levels at Fen Park. Picture: Clare StrachanSteve Lane testing oxygen levels at Fen Park. Picture: Clare Strachan (Image: Clare Strachan)

Lowestoft Journal: Fen Park Friends. Picture: Clare StrachanFen Park Friends. Picture: Clare Strachan (Image: Clare Strachan)