ANGLERS across Dorset have been urged to be vigilant, following a number of reports of wild salmon exhibiting Red Skin Disease in the UK.

The disease, which shows up as a rash on wild Atlantic salmon and sea trout, causes bleeding and ulceration on the underbelly and near the mouth of the fish.

This can lead to a fungal infection and eventual death.

While there is no evidence eating a contaminated fish can harm humans, left unchecked the unusual condition has the capability to impact wild stocks, which are already in decline.

Red Skin Disease was first reported in rivers draining into the Baltic Sea and Northern Atlantic around 2018 and has since been observed in parts of the UK.

The cause of RSD is currently unknown.

Poole police have posted a wildlife update on their Facebook page asking Dorset anglers to assist by recording any suspected cases they may come across.

Meanwhile, an Environment Agency spokesman said: "We have had no reported cases of mortality associated with ventral haemorrhaging in wild salmonids in England, but have received reports of a small number of fish caught by anglers showing changes consistent with Red Skin Disease.

"Our staff who operate salmon traps as part of our national index monitoring programme have also observed a small number of cases.

"We are asking anglers to be vigilant but not to remove or handle any fish in distress.

"Also for anglers to carefully take photographs of fish exhibiting any unusual marks if safe to do so, to practice good biosecurity, and to adhere to our guidance on disinfection or to 'clean, check, dry' equipment after fishing and before moving to other waters."

To report dead or dying fish, contact the incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.