IN this world of misery, murder and mayhem, the rescuing of several thousand fish from the inner basin at Diglis might seem - and please forgive us the pun - like pretty small fry.

Down the years, countless people must have stepped on to that worn red sandstone and crossed the wobbly bridge, never suspecting the extent of piscatorial diversity in those murky depths.

Well, now we know. For as the waters receded, all manner of species was revealed. These ranged from giant carp that would give serious anglers palpitations, right down to the tiddlers so beloved of small boys.

The basin had to be drained in order that vital repairs could be made to the walls. But what was to become of its long-term inhabitants?

We can now reveal that this newspaper has been watching the situation for some time. In fact, one of our more intrepid newshounds has been monitoring the basins on a daily basis.

And that is why we are pleased to report that the rescue operation - reported on pages one and two of today's editions - was successfully undertaken, thanks to the diligence of British Waterways and the firm that intends to develop the site.

Some might say that this was going to an awful lot trouble for a load of fish. But we would beg to differ.

For at heart, the British are a compassionate breed, sensitive rather than sentimental, with a deeply-held respect for their fellow creatures. And long may it remain so.