A WATERFRONT in Whitegate is at the centre of a project that teaches soldiers how to fish after taking on the Taliban.

The scheme was first introduced to Britain’s biggest barracks at Catterick, North Yorkshire, in May, with soldiers from the Mercian (Cheshire) First Regiment, due for postings in the Helmand Province, receiving lessons from local fishing instructor, Steve Beech.

Since then, Steve, of Hubert Drive, Middlewich, has introduced the soldiers to local waters and said the project is well on track to becoming a big success.

“I never imagined the project could have proved so popular, although I’ve always known about the therapeutic value of coarse fishing and the added bonus of spending time in peaceful, tranquil surroundings,” he said.

“Since May, the fishing adventure has progressed considerably.

“Four visits to Catterick barracks and now four visits to Winsford waters have followed.”

In the last two weeks, Steve welcomed two classes of ten soldiers at both Newpool in Whitegate and National Pool in Winsford.

Many of the soldiers visiting had been injured by IED’s (improvised explosive devices), varying from wounded limbs, hearing difficulties, skin grafts, shrapnel injuries and trauma.

And with the BBC cameras on site, and further interest from Radio 4 and BBC Five LIve, Steve has managed to generate some welcome national interest.

He said: “My phone hasn’t stopped ringing.

“Offers of help by anglers and more funds became available from generous donators now means that more equipment can be purchased.”

Nearly 40 soldiers have so far benefited from the scheme, with more trips planned for Winsford and two trips to Catterick lined up for the coming weeks.