PLANS to restore a fishing venue in the New Forest are being jeopardised by the very people who stand to benefit from the scheme.

Anglers tired of waiting for Cadman's Pool near Fritham to be restored are trying to restock it themselves by releasing carp into the water.

The Forestry Commission is warning that the practice is delaying attempts to reopen to pool to local fishermen.

Cadman's Pool has been closed since fish caught whitespot disease about five years ago and had to be destroyed.

The commission teamed up with the Environment Agency to remove more than 500 tonnes of mud, rubbish and rotting bait.

Keeper Tim Creed said: "Part of the problem with the old pool was that there was no vegetation.

"Now we've introduced plants that will oxygenate the water and provide homes for the snails and other creatures that will keep it clean.

"But carp feeding on the bottom of the pool keep tearing up the vegetation. Unless people stop putting them in, the pool will never stabilise and we'll never be able to reopen it for fishing."

Moving fish from one pond to another risks spreading disease and is illegal.

Mr Creed added: "All the fish currently being put into Cadman's Pool are having to be netted and destroyed. In time the site will be properly stocked with a range of coarse fish for people to catch, including tench, perch and rudd."

Anglers who have used Cadman's Pool in the past include members of Ringwood Fishing Club.

Secretary Peter Hutchinson said: "As far our members are concerned the pool is still closed, but locals and holidaymakers may have become frustrated at the delay and decided to take action themselves.

"It's always been a very popular spot with people who like to camp in the Forest and do a little fishing."