The colourful clown fish - the official emblem of one of Europe's leading aquariums, Maidenhead Aquatics - has arrived at the chain's Thornton branch.

Nemo, as the fish is called by customers, is one of dozens of marine fish which have arrived at a colourful new spectacle at the New Lane centre, which is at Strikes Burnside Garden Centre.

Partner Matthew Wallace said no expense had been spared in preparing the aquarium for its new intake, as thousands of pounds had been spent on ensuring the marine tanks were properly matured before the new fish arrived.

"We have now introduced marine live stock into the store," he said. "Our trade mark is the clown fish - and they are now home.

"There are different kinds of clown fish," he added.

Maidenhead Aquatics has a tank containing maroon clown fish, the male being much smaller than the female. He can often be found nestling among the anemones in their tank.

As well as the clown fish, there are dozens of other marine fish, anemone and coral, including more than 100 pieces of coral. There are also stunning scorpion fish and a variety of crabs in the dosens of tanks that line the walls.

"We cater for all keepers of fish, from beginners to the experienced aquists," added Mr Wallace, who stocks only the best brands, including Tropical Marine Centre, Aquamedic, Red Sea and New Era, to name but a few.

"I hve matured the system for a long, long time to ensure the best fish environment," he added. "All our fish are purchased from TMC and are pre-quarantined before arrival, ensuring top health."

Customer Debbie Green, who lives locally, was delighted by the new marine fish.

She told the Weekly News: "We've got four fish tanks - a 3ft, a 4ft, a smaller one and we've just bought a 6ft tank. We have a variety of fish and even have little red crabs, which are breeding.

"We're in here all the time - they laugh at us we come in so often! But they've definitely got the best selection here."