Benson has died

Anglers and children around the country are mourning the loss of Benson, the 25-year-old common carp who passed away in the Kingfisher Lake near Peterborough on Wednesday (29 July).

Weighing in at 64lbs, Benson – the monster oily freshwater fish – captured the hearts of thousands for being the country's most famous fish.

Anglers worldwide have spent more than seven years trying to catch Benson – who weighs the equivalent of a large dog – since he was introduced into the Bluebell Lakes complex at Tansor, near Oundle, during their first carp stocking in 1994, weighing in at just 24.5lbs.

Benson, who was once voted Britain's Favourite Carp, arrived at the lakes with her mate Hedges but they were later separated when Hedges swam off into the River Nene.

Since then Benson has grown to a staggering 64lbs and been caught by more than 60 anglers across the world.

He has also brought fame to her home at Bluebell Lakes and to himself – for being the most famous fish in the country.

Owner of Bluebell Lakes Tony Bridgefoot said: "Benson was the biggest common carp in the country and I certainly believe him to be the most famous.

"We think he was aged between 20 and 25 but most carps live well into their 30s.

"Benson was found on Wednesday by some of the anglers in Kingfisher Lake. We are all still trying to come to terms with her death and get our heads around what has happened.

"We need to decide whether we are going to replace him with another carp. It is still early days.

"Benson had that celebrity status. He was a stunning fish. I can't stress how famous he was in the angling world. All fisherman wanted to catch him.

"I know of anglers spending up to seven years trying. But he was also popular with the children.

"He will certainly leave a legacy."

Angling correspondent for The Evening Telegraph Ken Wade added: "It is a terrible shame to hear of her death, Benson was fantastic and one of the few record breakers that can be fished. He was phenomenal."

Scores of anglers from across the country voiced their sadness at Benson's death on about six angling Internet forums.