YOUNG anglers from around the region have been showing off their skills in a series of matches over the summer.
Five junior matches across several lakes, pools and rivers were organised by Winsford and District Angling Association and Middlewich Joint Anglers in two age groups – 13-17 years and 12 years and under.
Four out of the five matches were won by Shaun Harris, who secured first place in the older age group after an impressive display.
Among his catches was a specimen break weight 7lbs 8ozs in the first match at New Pool.
Max Reid remained in close contention throughout the series and eventually finished in second place.
Aidan Foster, who finished third overall and also picked up a special award for his care for the environment after picking up any litter he encountered, had a particularly memorable evening at Tetton Lake where he caught his biggest ever fish – a 3lbs tench.
Dominic Griffin secured first place in the younger age group with a number of impressive catches, including two large carp during a match at The Ocean.
Another highlight of the junior competition was the display of seven-year-old Rocco Smith in the final match of the series.
Minutes before the match was due to end, Rocco landed an impressive 4lbs bream to secure a convincing win.
Full results (ages in brackets):
13-17 years:
1, Shaun Smith (15) 44 points; 2, Max Reid (14) 40 points; 3, Aidan Foster (15) 24 points; 4=, Matty Banks (16), Max Beech (14) 18 points; 6, Micah Backhouse (14) 16 points; 7=, Charlie Parkinson (13), Sam Thomson (16) 14 points; 9, Kasper Machnik (14) 6 points; 10, Alex-Jay Senior (14) 2 points
12 and under:
1, Dominic Griffin (12) 36 points; 2, Charlie Mitchell (12) 26 points; 3=, Eric Forbes (12), Jack Fray (11), Rocco Smith (7) 10 points; 6, Reece Porter 8 points; 7, Tristan Smith 4 points; 8, Bailey Saunders, 2 points
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