KIND well-wishers who were moved by news of the attack on Castle Park’s Koi Carp have donated fish to the park’s Imola Pond.

Four Koi have been donated by families and benefactors from as far away as Cambridge.

A Ghost Koi and two more orange and black Koi will be joining the pond on Monday following a quarantine period.

A total of 45 fish, including all of the oldest, rarest and most valuable Koi Carp that had lived in the pond for many years, were killed after vandals slashed the container they were being kept in during maintenance work on November 2.

Unemployed Jamie Watson - who had downed 11 pints of Fosters  - admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, theft and two counts of criminal damage when he appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court last month.

Magistrates ordered him to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work in 12 months and he must also pay a total of £1,820, including £1,650 in compensation to Colchester Council.

Thanks to quick-thinking park staff, a number of fish were able to be saved after the attack.

Councillor Annie Feltham, portfolio holder for Business, Leisure and Opportunities, said: "We are extremely touched by the generosity of those who have donated these beautiful fish to Castle Park.

"The fish are a unique and well-loved feature in the park and we really appreciate this compassionate gesture.

“Our park gardeners and park rangers have been a real credit to the organisation, following this mindless and sickening act of vandalism. 

"They have prepared the donated fish for release and we hope the Koi will continue to give pleasure to visitors for many years to come."

In January the Park will be expecting to receive two more Koi, which have been donated by a business called Marine Reef in Great Bromley.