POACHERS are being urged to resist the tempation to bag a salmon as an illegal Christmas treat.

The warning from the Environment Agency comes after two alleged poachers were arrested last week after a tip-off from the public.

Because of the tip-off, agency staff were able to reach the scene near Redcar, east Cleveland, quickly and apprehend the two men. A file on their case is now being prepared.

Fisheries team leader John Shannon is urging the public to stay vigilant in the run-up to Christmas.

"Often at this time of year we get people trying to catch salmon and sea trout for their Christmas menu," he said.

"However, it is illegal to fish for them at this time of year as they are currently trying to spawn. Killing them can have a detrimental effect on future fish stocks."

He added: "We would urge anyone who sees anything suspicious or is offered fresh salmon or sea trout that is obviously not farmed to get in touch with us.

"We shall continue to patrol the rivers and will seek to prosecute anybody fishing illegally."

Anyone wishing to report poaching incidents should contact the free number, 0800 807060.