Hundreds of fish were removed from a Wiltshire canal, as pupils from Rowde Primary School watched the action.

The children joined a team from the Canal and River Trust to observe the operation and learn of the canal’s history.

They also met some of the aquatic residents being removed – including roach, perch and carp – before a section of the lock flight was drained for repairs, as part of the trust’s £45million winter works programme.

Becca Dent, of the Canal and River Trust, said: “People are often amazed at the size and diversity of the fish that come out of our waterways.

“It’s the biggest freshwater fishery in the country. Fish are among our most important residents and we take their safety very seriously. “ The team used electrofishing to catch the fish humanely, using mild electric shocks to stun them before a transfer to a nearby unaffected stretch.

Teacher Claire Tarrant said: “The visit was wonderful and educational for the children who were very interested in the rescue. It was an unusual but fun way to end the school day.”