New fish an exciting new step in Northala fields development

The first batch of fish were taken by trailer all the way from Worcester on Wednesday to begin to fill the small lakes. The delivery was delayed by about an hour because strong winds forced the driver to keep a slow speed for fear the tanks would be blown over.

The fish were supplied by Get Hooked on Fishing which will manage the stocks and open for business in the summer.

The charity's residence in the Northolt park means the classroom, cafe and toilets, initially planned for the site can now be built as the whole complex will be self-funding within three years. It is currently going through the planning stage.

And as well as provide an extra activity for residents, Get Hooked on Fishing will work with the police and the council to employ young mentors to act as role models for children. Some of their focus will be on supporting those in danger of running off the rails with similar schemes successful throughout the country.

Mick Watson, consultant for Get Hooked on Fishing said: "We're here to put smiles on people's faces and help them realise more than they think they can."

Five young mentors aged between 12 and 17 have already been recruited and the charity is hoping to recruit seven more early next year.

The tench, crusian carp and rudd were carefully transferred by nets and will be joined by a variety of other fish next year.

David Wise, chairman of the Northolt and Greenford Countryside Parks Society, said: "It is another step in seeing this once derelict area turned into one of the most outstanding open spaces in the world."

The park was recently short-listed in the World Architecture Awards, alongside the likes of Beijing International Airport and Seattle Art Museum.

And it won Horticulture Week's Landscape and Amenity Awards this month.