I AM still wiping the egg off my chin following last week's article, when I pointed out that there seemed to have been no significant snowfall in recent years.

By the time the article was read, there was four inches of snow on the ground, and the country had virtually ground to a halt.

Nevertheless, I believe my theory still stands up, as the snow, with all its associated problems, only fell for five or six hours. What would happen if it snowed for a week?

The adverse weather conditions have played havoc with angling. The majority of waters have been totally frozen over, leaving the rivers the only viable option.

This is the only time of year most anglers would consider visiting a river. I have had no reports relating to the Severn, Dane, Dee or Vyrnwy, although reports from Wincham Brook and the Bollin have been very good, with grayling, roach, dace, chub and perch feeding well on Wincham Brook.

River Bollin water keeper Ste Brown reports the river fishing well for all the usual species. Ste reported that a pocket of good bream has been located on the Reddish stretch, close to the Ship Canal. These have produced excellent sport for those who know of their whereabouts. The only clue to the locality of these shoals is 'the big oak tree close to the end of the stretch.'

While on the subject of the River Bollin, I must warn members of the problem of a collapsed bank on our Warburton stretch, a little downstream from the weir.

The access path has been washed away, making the normal access dangerous, if not impossible. Members must take care on their approach to this stretch of water.

Club administration nights will commence at 7.45pm each Wednesday starting on January 10. These will be held at the Manor Lock Pub inn Grange Avenue, Latchford.

Members wishing to assist, while also accruing time towards their overstamps, are asked to report to Eddie Rothwell. The work is essential with the need to pack thousands of envelopes.

Fortunately it is also light work which will offer an opportunity for disabled and pensioner members to earn overstamps in warm and congenial surroundings. These sessions will continue until spring.

Membership renewals will be sent out during this month. Some will get their renewals before others, so there is no need to worry if you don't get yours at the same time as others. Please remember that your 2000 membership is valid until March 31, 2001.

I can be contacted on 411774.

Neil Jupp