A huge pike of 33lb has been landed from the Thames near Faringdon by Patrick Belcher, who comes from nearby Stanford in the Vale.

Patrick was legering sprats on a size six treble to a 15lb wire trace and had already landed a couple of smaller pike when he struck into the big one.

The fish put up a good scrap and luckily, Patrick’s mate was there to land it.

This exceptional specimen makes you wonder if there any record-breakers in the river.

l I ventured out for a few hours last week for the first time in ages, just staying local around Potts Stream, on the outskirts of Oxford.

I travelled light, fishing a swim for a few minutes and then moving on to the next. I baited up with mashed bread and used a simple swan shot leger with flake on the hook.

I caught chub, nothing very big, with the best going around 4lb, but it was nice to get out in the fresh air.

Hopefully, the weather will be kind to us for the last few weeks of the season before river fishing finishes on March 14 for its annual close season break.

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