WARRINGTON Anglers' Association members will be interested to learn of some changes that occurred at the weekend.

At the National Federation of Anglers' 99th annual conference, my old friend Terry Fell was voted in as president for three years and John Mitchell as vice-president for two years.

They have promised an improved service to anglers - so watch this space!

An important motion from our north west region - 'That the NFA brings pressure to bear on the Environment Agency to conduct a full survey of rod licence holders to determine their views on a close season for fish on rivers' - was passed almost unanimously.

If the agency heeds the democratic wishes of the Federation members this contentious matter will be put to bed once and for all.

The fact of the matter is that there is no known scientific reason to treat fish in rivers any differently than their stillwater cousins.

The only other motion that was carried was that the NFA become an incorporated body.

On the fishing scene, action at the prolific Cicily Mill Pool has really revved up a gear in the warmer weather. Brian Simmonds fished pole and caster for an estimated mixed bag of roach and crucians of more than 50lbs. Obviously no keepnets are allowed on this shallow fishery but with the stamp of fish it does not take many of them to make up this sort of weight.

Tench are still in a feeding mood at Rixton Claypits where Ryan Williams had a catch of 23 fish to 5lbs 11ozs 0drms on mini boilies and flavoured corn.

Father and son duo Peter and Mike Walton did not do too badly with an impressive catch of 16 tench, one bream of 6lbs and a mirror carp of 20-8-0. They followed up this success with a trip to Grey Mist Mere where Michael, aged 16 years, had mirror carp of 11-11-0, 14-10-0, 15-2-0 and 20-8-0 whereas his dad went for quality rather than quantity with a single fish of 23-8-0.

Six bailiffs and volunteers spent the weekend cleaning up rubbish from Grey Mist Mere. This is unacceptable and if this had been a rented fishery it would no longer have been in our control! You must ensure that your peg is litter free before you start fishing as there will be no excuses allowed. If any is in the vicinity of your peg it will be assumed to be yours. I would also remind members that there are no cans or bottles allowed on this fishery and only permitted baits as printed in our licence may be used.

Do not forget we are actively looking for our next fishery or land purchase, so if you know of any for sale let me know immediately. Thanks to those who have already given me leads.

Contact me with any catch reports on 01928 716238, fax 713898 or e-mail frank@warrington-anglers.org.uk. HQ Parker Street will open as usual tomorrow, Friday, between 7pm and 9.30pm for new members and subscriptions.

Frank Lythgoe

Coming events: Saturday: Briars Cup Open, draw 10am on bank (pegs 570-670). Monday: Disabled and Over 60s, draw 10.15am, Star Inn.