A well-attended charity open angling match on Blickling Lake - to raise funds to buy a memorial bench to place on the banks of the popular National Trust water - produced a sum of £212 at the weekend.

A well-attended charity open angling match on Blickling Lake - to raise funds to buy a memorial bench to place on the banks of the popular National Trust water - produced a sum of £212 at the weekend. It is a memorial for former bailiff David Cooper

Nigel Day and his willing band of helpers are planning to stage another similar event soon in order to bridge the cost of the bench and an engraved plaque, writes Roy Webster.

Day said he was delighted with the turnout at the weekend and added: “A lot of anglers who knew and respected David Cooper supported the fundraiser, and I thank all of them and all the other lads who helped.”

Winner was Lowestoft's Gary Button with a splendid catch of bream totalling 71lb. Runner-up Ian Baz of Aylsham had 66lb, followed by Hevingham's Terry Palmer with 61lb.

Meanwhile the Stalham club members smashed records on the Barford Willow Lake at the weekend where their winner Alex Watson recorded his personal best return with a staggering carp catch of 174lb 13oz, thought to be a club record on the lake. Robin Austrin also chalked up his pb as runner-up with 109lb, followed by Dave Dearman with 89lb 2oz.

The Environment Agency has announced that finance is available to support a fresh initiative to tempt more people to try freshwater fishing in the Norfolk broads and rivers.

Wednesday, September 17 has been earmarked as the date for

a training session on the river Yare at the Beauchamp Arms along with a promise that funds will be made available to defray the cost of bait and terminal tackle such as feeders.

The Environment Agency will be booking NFA-qualified coaches for the tuition session and they will demonstrate techniques before handing over to the beginners to participate in the sport that Isaac Walton described as the gentle art of angling in his 16th century book.

At the Environment Agency's Norwich office head of fisheries Graham Gamble said it was now policy to try and promote angling with a more hands on approach and added: “This coaching session on September 17 is open for adults and juniors.

“However, I would stress that any youngster enrolling will have to be accompanied either by a parent or a responsible adult for safety reasons. We shall be implementing safety measures such as providing lifebelts and lines in case someone stumbles into the river Yare which is tidal, fast and deep.”

Any interested in the coaching session may book in by telephoning Graham Gamble on 01473 706556 who will answer various questions including starting times and advise on fishing tackle would-be anglers will have to provide for themselves.