A DOZEN young anglers contested the inaugural Junior Open at Doe Hey reservoirs.

Members at the private fishing club in Harper Green Road, Farnworth, opened up their doors for the event for children aged from five to 15.

And the three-hour match was won by seven-year-old Caitlin Holt, who pulled in an impressive haul of skimmers and roach weighing in at 13lb 10oz.

Luke Barnes, aged eight, was second with a 3lb 8oz catch of small roach.

Both young winners were awarded a rod an tackle, provided by event sponsor Tri-Cast,one of the UKs leading fishing tackle manufacturers, and Stinky Stuff, a Bolton-based company that ship all over the UK.

Organiser Mick Booth, who works as a lecturer at Bury College and is a Tri-Cast sponsored angler, said: "It was a thoroughly enjoyable event, with all youngsters, who were ably assisted by venue experts, catching plenty of fish.

"It was fantastic to see so many young anglers keen to attend and stay focused throughout the match."

First-place Caitlin, who fished at five metres up in the water on caster and pinkie, fed groundbait to attract her prize-winning haul.

"Caitlin is an experienced young angler and often ventures out with her father Rob Holt, who is a keen and successful match angler himself," said Booth.

"But youngsters interested in the sport who don't have a parent or guardian to help them get started can find plenty of help at Doe Hey.

"The club offers free coaching sessions to any member, young and old."

Following on from the "overwhelming response from anglers and parents" to the Doe Hey Junior Open, the organiser said the event would definitely be run again in the future.

To find out more about Doe Hey Reservoirs, visit the club's page on Facebook.