A FARMER has criticised the Environment Agency's management of a beauty spot where two otters were killed by illegal fishing nets.

Robert Byass runs the High Eske Farm in Tickton next to the nature reserve of the same name.

The rare mammals – a male and a female – were caught in fyke nets used to catch eels.

While otter populations are making a recovery, a male's territory can span 20 miles which means it maybe a while before other otters move in to the reserve.

Mr Byass is unhappy with the agency's response to concerns he raised about illegal fishing.

He said: "We farm land around the reserve and have seen the illegal use of nets.We have raised these concerns with the agency many times.

"When the dead otters were reported the agency were on site within an hour but several days too late to save the otters and several months after being informed of the use of illegal nets.

"There were probably only two pairs of otters on the River Hull and half of them are now dead due to inaction by the agency.

"The agency bailiff was told on at least five occasions there were illegal nets in the lake but took no action."

But the agency claims it acts on every report received.

Team leader Phil Young said: "The Environment Agency's bailiff has been to High Eske to investigate after every report we have received about illegal fishing activities. However, illegal nets may not have been visible at certain tides.

"Although High Eske is in a remote location where policing is difficult, we will endeavour to increase our presence in the area."