The Angling Trust are to meet Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon to reduce the red tape involved in applying for a licence to control fish-eating birds like cormorants, which cause major damage to the UK’s £3.5b angling industry.

Many angling clubs and fisheries, which have been in existence for generations, are struggling to survive and without adequate fish stocks.

The current process in applying for licences is a minefield and the Trust have called on the Minister to make the following four changes: 1 Make it possible for fishery managers to control birds all year round.

2 Remove the requirements for fishery managers to consult with Natural England staff and to detail the proximity of ancient monuments etc in their applications 3 Remove the requirement for evidence of damage and allow preventative control, rather than after the stock has been eaten.

4 Apply for reduction on limits on the number of birds which can be shot each year.

l THE Oxon and North Wilts branch of the Pike Anglers Club are staging a fish-in on Brasenose 1 at Linear Fisheries, near Stanton Harcourt, on January 16 (7.30am).

Deadbaits and lures can be used, but no livebaits.

Entry is £15 for two rods payable on the day, but entries must be with Vince Williams (tel 07946 572015) by tomorrow (Jan 9). Non-PAC members are welcome.

l IF you have any news, views or photos, you can contact me on 01865 725606 or email agw@awebber20.orangehome.co.uk