Dozens of endangered crayfish found dead

The Environment Agency said it had ruled out crayfish plague

About 70 endangered crayfish have been found dead in a river.

The Environment Agency (EA) is carrying out investigations around the River Wansbeck in Northumberland, where the native white clawed crayfish died.

Tests have already ruled out pollution and white spot syndrome virus, as well as crayfish plague.

People are being urged to help prevent the spread of any potential infection by thoroughly cleaning boots and equipment that has been in the river.

Sarah Jennings, the EA's area environment manager, said the Wansbeck had hundreds of thousands of the species - one of the largest populations in Europe.

"Everyone has a part to play to limit the spread of any infection which may be affecting them," she added.

She urged anyone who spotted any crayfish, dead or alive, to call the EA.

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science is conducting further testing for infectious diseases.