A FISH count that will see the creatures counted and stunned in the River Cherwell has been praised as a boost to habitat in Spiceball Park.

The survey will use electric shock treatment to stun fish within the 75-yard stretch of the river and will then collect them in nets to identify their species before releasing them back in.

Wildlife organisation Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust will carry out the survey on Tuesday in line with an overall makeover of the park beginning in autumn.

Judith Hartley from BBOWT said the survey would reveal key information about the habitat in the river so that further improvements to the site and its wildlife could be made.

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The Abingdon resident added: “The best way to do the survey is to use electric fishing equipment so they rise to the top then get collected by people with nets.

“We are hoping the way that we do it will help to create diversity in the river so that it will encourage some nice river species to come through.

“The count will take place between the bridges in Spiceball Park and the riverside will remain open to the public.

“We are not expecting a large crowd, but anyone interested can come and watch.”

Chairman of Banbury Town Council’s general services committee and councillor Colin Clarke said: the survey will unveil key information ahead of the makeover.

“This is an important project and the survey will reveal a lot about the condition of the river before the improvement work goes ahead.”

Another count will take place in a year’s time to determine the success of the project.