AS far as angling goes this is a bad time of the year with only the hardy armed with ice-breakers, bloodworm and a 'tot' in their flasks venturing forth.

One group however, who are determined to beat the winter blues are MAP Elton who have been travelling miles in pursuit of success.

Last Saturday they journeyed to Oxford to fish their local winter league and found top spot with a first, third, fifth and 10th out of the 24 angler sections.

The following day saw them at Nuneaton and this saw second place out of 30 teams.

Best placed man was Simon Roberts who was second in his section with 4lb-1oz caught on the joker.

They now lie poised for the title in second place just one point behind Van Den Gyne. IF there are any match secretaries who are thinking about an alternative local match venue, then they could do worse than to make enquiries regarding Planets and Victoria Lakes at Barrow Bridge.

Planets goes to 14 foot deep and has good access, particularly for disabled anglers. Big carp and perch are on offer. Victoria is the larger of the two lakes and at it's deepest is six foot, it boasts good heads of tench, roach, bream, perch, perch and big pike. No keepnets are allowed, except in matches, barbless or miscrobarb hooks only and no night fishing.

The pole, waggler and swimfeeder are the preferred methods used in conjunction with all popular baits except bloodworm. The lakes can be found at Moss Lane, Barrow Bridge on the right just after the big chimney.

To book on contact Charles Howarth on 01204 841505. GOOD DEAL FOR JUNIORS THERE can be no better introduction to angling for an interested junior than to join a club.

One such opportunity arises next Tuesday when Bolton Anglers Association open their lists for any interested juniors to join.

The meeting commences at 7.30pm at the Angling Club on Rishton Lane.

The juniors can look forward to tuition and discount cards for tackle and permits.

Such is Bolton Anglers commitments to the juniors that they are running a senior match to raise funds. It will be fished on Sunday week on the Leeds-Liverpool canal at Cherry Tree.

There are no bait bans and the draw will take place at 8.30am with fishing from 10am until 3pm.

Anglers can book on at local tackle shops or alternatively you can reserve your place by telephoning Dave Hansen on 0161 76 7441 or Sam Merge 01204 370983. SEA ANGLING A NEW sea angling club has been formed at Tonge Ward Labour Club.

Any anglers interested in taking up beach casting, boat or wreck fishing are welcome whether they are young people, new starters or old hands.

Just turn up at Tonge Ward Labour Club any Thursday night or ring 01204 432335 for more details.

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