More than 100 Koi carp, worth £3,500, have been poisoned in the latest in a series of break-ins at a pondlife store.

One hundred and forty of the exotic fish were found dead in six holding tanks at World of Water at Turners Hill, near Crawley.

Police have been brought in to catch those responsible as store bosses count the cost of the latest attack.

Last December thieves damaged pools and equipment in an undercover area used to display fish for sale.

They also stole four prize-winning Koi carp valued at £800 each.

Last Wednesday thieves stole pumps and equipment used to aerate and circulate water in holding tanks.

World of Water owner Annette Yeomans said thousands of fish would have suffocated had a member of staff not arrived an hour early.

She said that if the fish been without water for another hour, all their stocks could have been lost and the fish would have died a lingering death.

Only the quick reactions of staff who installed emergency pumps and aerators in the tanks saved the fish.

Mrs Yeomans, 55, said: "I am horrified such a sick person is free in the community. The thief or thieves have become more brazen for subsequent break-ins.

"They were beautiful four to five inch-long fish, all wonderfully healthy.

"When the staff came into work on Saturday morning they were greeted with the sickening sight of 140 large Koi carp dead from some form of poisoning.

"There was a mass of dead fish."

Sussex Police are dealing with all the incidents and scenes of crime officers have been at the centre each time to collect evidence.

Mrs Yeomans said: "I believe the same people are responsible and it is making me extremely upset and nervous as this is my livelihood."

World of Water stocks various types of pondlife and equipment at around 22 stores nationwide.

Mrs Yeomans said: "We are increasing our level of security to protect our stock of fish and products but this maniac seems to enjoy killing fish in the most cruel way possible.

"I hope this criminal can be apprehended."

Anyone with information should call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.