PRIZE fish worth more than £1,000 have been stolen from a pond in the back garden of a house in Park South.

Devastated Janet Duffy, 46, who lives in Cranmore Avenue, went to feed her 12 pets as usual at around 8pm on Tuesday night when she discovered they had been taken.

Police believe thieves jumped over the fence and took the fish before walking away unnoticed.

Five Shibunkins, four Koi carp, two fan tails and three large Goldfish were scooped out of the pond using nets.

Care officer Mrs Duffy said: "I couldn't believe it usually when I go out to feed them they all rush to the surface, but it was all quiet on Tuesday night and I knew something was up.

"It's been a hobby of mine for more than six years and I adored them."

Mrs Duffy is in the process of rebuilding the pond and has vowed to replace her stolen fish when she can afford to.

Anyone with information is urged to call Swindon Police on 528111 or Crimestoppers on 0800555111.