VOLUNTEERS are shifting bucketfuls of shingle to save an oxygen-starved river ridden with dying fish.

Residents in Seaford are trying to clear the mouth of the River Cuckmere after what they have described as “years of neglect” from the Environment Agency.

Upset by the river’s foul stench, flooding, and fish being left to flounder, they want to create a channel so the Cuckmere can flow into the sea.

They were out digging in force in Cuckmere Haven on Saturday.

Councillor Sam Adeniji said: “The Environment Agency’s refusal to dredge the mouth of the Cuckmere has meant the meanders have dried up, and fish are dying due to a lack of oxygen in the river and a low water level.

“This poses a danger to wildlife and a health hazard to people.

“Last winter due to heavy rainfall the Cuckmere meanders were completely flooded as a result of the Environment Agency’s refusal to de-shingle the mouth of the Cuckmere river.

“By clearing enough shingle to create a channel to the sea we may help prevent a future occurrence.”

He added: “Instead of being a magical meander, Cuckmere haven now has an unpleasant smell.

“The efforts of local residents to take control of the situation led by Guy Denney puts the Environment Agency to shame, it shows that the people of Seaford are determined to save the Cuckmere.”

The Environment Agency said work to clear the mouth of the river would begin next month.

A spokesman said: “The Environment Agency has secured £100,000 of Flood Defence Grant-in-Aid to reduce flood risk to the community at Alfriston over the next five years.

“We will clear the river mouth when our trigger levels are met to ensure the water does not back-up and flood local houses and roads. Clearance work will begin next month.

“This work is classified as flood defence, so if the river blocks in the summer but levels are low, we will not clear the river.

“However, we are exploring a partnership with Pevensey and Cuckmere Water Level Management Board for them to contribute to the project so we can carry out more frequent clearances.”

Organiser Guy Denney said the volunteers had made “brilliant progress” and had managed to move enough shingle to make a small channel. But he argued it is vital to keep the Cuckmere tidal, and said more still needs to be done.

You can volunteer at https://www.facebook.com/groups/2656616094579632