THREE men are facing stiff fines after being arrested for alleged salmon poaching on the River Tyne at Wylam.

Environment Agency officers swooped at Hagg Bank near Wylam last month in a joint operation with Northumbria Police.

Two nets were seized during the operation, which had 13 fish inside, and the fish, nets and other equipment were seized

The men were aged 48, 37 and 30, and it’s not being revealed at this stage whether they were local.

It’s the second time in six weeks that people have been arrested at Hagg Bank, following a similar joint operation between Environment Agency officials and the police.

The Environment Agency’s Dave Edwardson said: “Poaching has a serious impact on salmon stocks in our rivers as well as on angling, and, as a result, the local economy.

“That’s why we take reports of suspected poaching seriously and work closely with the police to take action where appropriate.

“We’ll continue to take action against all aspects of illegal fishing activity to protect our fish stocks, particularly ensuring those using serious illegal and potentially damaging methods are targeted.”

Northumbria Police Neighbourhood Inspector for Tynedale East, Julie Cole, added: “Poaching remains a wildlife crime priority and officers are working closely with the Environment Agency to tackle this crime.

“The activities of poachers is a concern to our rural communities and we’ve found that criminals are travelling into Northumberland, particularly the good fishing stretches of the Tyne as it runs through Tynedale, to take advantage of the excellent fishing conditions we have locally.

“We will continue to work closely with partners to take action against those found fishing illegally.”

Anyone discovered committing offences could face a substantial fine at court. The Environment Agency urges anyone to report illegal fishing by calling 0800 80 70 60.