There are fish commonly called "algae eaters" that have little sucker-mouths on the bottom of their heads, which feed on algae and live harmoniously in tropical fish tanks. They are available at every pet store I've ever been to in America, so they must be in Britain as well. I think fish called "plecostamous" also eat algae, though they eat other things too. Mainly you should not be exposing your tank to natural sunlight, as that is what makes algae flourish. Instead, use a hood light with incandescent light bulbs to provide light for your tank. Good luck!