MOVING to a different spot in the same canal you are struggling on can make all the difference.

Following last week’s abysmal match results on the Bridgewater Canal, it was a case of back to where the fish can usually be found during the winter months.

The Warrington Anglers’ local winter league saw most of the fish tightly shoaled in Lymm Village, borne out by the fact that most if not all the top weights came from just six adjacent pegs.

The individual winner, Paul Hughes, caught 30 net roach in 30 put-ins using pinkie over groundbait.

Runner-up Phil Cross really had to work hard for his 10lbs 1ozs 4drs net of small roach taken on bread punch.

Saints took the team honours with 20 points, followed closely by Black Claggers on 19.

Overall it looks like a close contest between Cheshire Gold, who are five clear on 145 points, and rivals Saints with one match to go.

Our Disabled and Over 60s match saw organiser John Dagnall move back to the Dead Length, where George Barber took the individual crown with a nice net of hybrids for 7-13-0 caught on bread punch.

He was closely followed by Barry Chambers on 7-4-0, who took his better fish on caster and included a 1½lbs skimmer in his runner-up catch.

In the Mersey’s last match of the season, it was a real grueller won by Eddie Frangleton with a single 1-10-0 hybrid, with Lee Clarke and Karl Guy in joint second place with just one roach each for 7-10.

Keep sending your catch reports to 01928 716238 or frank@warrington-anglers.org.uk.

HQ 52, Parker Street is open as usual between 7pm and 9pm on Friday, for subscriptions, new memberships/night permits, or any queries.

Frank Lythgoe

Results: Warrington Anglers Local Winter League: Individuals:1, Paul Hughes (Saints) 14-0-0; 2, Phil Cross (Bob’s Lot) 10-1-4; 3, Martin Griffiths (Black Claggers) 9-7-8; 4, George Barber (Warrington Red) 7-12-8. Teams on the day: Saints 20points, Black Claggers 19, Cheshire Gold 15. League overall: Cheshire Gold 145points, Saints 140, Bob’s Lot & Black Claggers 123, Warrington Red 101, Woolston 85. Disabled and Over 60s: 1, George Barber 7-13-0; 2, Barry Chambers 7-4-0; 3, Derek Bibby 4-2-12; 4, Jimmy Byrne 3-6-0.

Forthcoming Events: Monday: Disabled and Over 60s, draw at 10am at Star Inn. Call John Dagnall on 635486.