NOVICE Wellington fisherman Bob Gitsham’s luck was in when he went fishing with an Age UK Somerset group at Exe Valley Fisheries, Exebridge.

Bob, pictured with his catch, said: “It’s been great fun, something I’ve always wanted to do. It’s a nice social and I’m so pleased that I caught two fish on my first go.”

Sally and Tony Pizii have completed their tenth fly fishing course for Age UK Somerset this month and the charity is taking names for the next six-week session, which should start in September.

Participants learn about different aspects of fly fishing each week, practise their casting and taste dishes such as trout pate and trout fishcakes, home-made by the coaches.

Once group members have graduated they have a chance to get together once a month in a social group with the support of Tony and Sally and fish together in different locations, giving them the confidence to then go out alone.

To reserve a place on the next course, which costs £60 for six weeks, phone 01823 345626.