An Environment Agency team is to put the bends back in a Sussex river, more than 150 years after it was ruined for wildlife.

A stretch of the River Stor at Storrington was straightened to supply water to a flour mill which once stood in the middle of the village, where the millpond is today.

This had disastrous consequences for wildlife because there were no longer any natural meanders in the river.

Now a fisheries team from the Environment Agency will recreate these meanders so fish and fauna to flourish.

Project manager Paul Newman said: "By recreating the meanders, pools and gravel bars we can enhance the river for invertebrates and fish and enable native aquatic plants to recolonise the Stor.

"We are hoping our work will provide a good habitat and cover for a range of amphibians, mammals and insects as well as allowing refuge for fry fish at times of high river flows.

"The restoration of the river will provide improved recreational opportunities for people living nearby. It will be a lovely place to enjoy walks."

Plans for the stretch of river at Meadowside include information boards and riverside seating to be provided by Horsham District Council and Storrington Parish Council.

Mr Newman said: "This is such a worthwhile project which will eventually allow the young to see and learn about the natural river habitat while making the whole area a nicer place to be.

"By turning back the clock, we can make sure the people of Storrington will enjoy their local river environment for many years to come."