FAMILIES can try a new skill by learning to fish for free in Northwich and Middlewich this month.

Thanks to funding from the People's Postcode Lottery, the Canal and River Trust and the Angling Trust are holding free Let's Fish! events on canals in the two towns.

The sessions are aimed at adults who have never fished or have not fished for a long time, or children aged seven and above, giving the whole family the chance to enjoy the outdoors.

John Ellis, national fisheries and angling manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Our canals and rivers offer plenty of peaceful places to get away from it all.

Learn the basics from a professional angling coach and discover the huge variety of fish found in canals and rivers.

"With research showing that being by the water makes people healthier and happier these free sessions are a great way to unwind, enjoy quality family time and make new memories.

"A famously solitary sport, fishing lends itself to ‘natural social distancing’ and we want families to feel reassured by the Covid-19 safety measures at these events."

The Middlewich events will take place from 10am to 4.15pm, at Tetton Lane, on August 17 and 24.

In Northwich, the events will take place from 10am to 4.15pm, at Lift Lane, on August 18 and 25.

Hand sanitiser, reduced numbers and the track and trace system will all be in place at the events, while coaching style has been adapted for social distancing.

All tackle and bait, as well as a rod licence and fishing permit, is provided for free.

To manage numbers onsite places must be booked in advance at canalrivertrust.org.uk/lets-fish