The introduction of specially-bred micro-organisms into Newent Lake last summer to reduce algal bloom and prevent fish deaths has been hailed as a success.

Mayor Fred Passant said: "Bio-dosing worked last year, there were no fish deaths and so we are going to do it again this year."

The decision to repeat the treatment was taken at a meeting of the town's recreation and environment committee at the Market Hall on Monday.

In the summer of 2002, concern was raised about falling oxygen levels and algal bloom at the lake, one of the town's beauty spots. It is particularly renowned for its carp.

An oxygen meter was borrowed from the Environ-ment Agency, before the council agreed to buy its own meter, costing around £600. It also invested £2,500 in an aerator.

The micro-organisms were added in four stages last year, at a cost of around £2,000. They compete with algae for food and reduce algal bloom, keeping oxygen levels high.

The council is also continuing its efforts to discourage people from feeding the ducks on the lake by adding more signs. It says bread is not the best food for ducks and uneaten food encourages vermin.

The council will seek advice from the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge about the best food for ducks, so that members of the public can still feed the birds.

Coun Passant: "We will see if we can get the food available in one or two shops."