AVID anglers in Warrington are being urged to cast their nets and raise cash for St Rocco's Hospice.

Penketh and Old Hall Angling Society - POHAS - which is arranging the day is hoping to also raise cash for the British Heart Foundation. The idea behind the fundraiser was for a few club members to go on a midweek match and to raise some money for the causes but now it's turned into a bumper challenge.

To make a success of the day - which is being held at Baden Hall Fisheries in Stafford - the group needs 160 anglers to take part of any ability, ranging from amateur anglers to internationals, but everyone who takes part has to have a passion for fishing.

Everyone who takes part has to raise a minimum of £50 through individual sponsorship or get help from a business or organisation, and once that level of support has been generated and confirmed by a POHAS member they can take part on the day.

People who aren't thrilled by fishing are also being reeled in to help. Organisers are looking for people to donate prizes for a raffle that will be held on the day and cash pledges to the two charities are also welcome.

And sporting celebrities who would like to take part are welcome. Representatives from the causes will also be there on the day.

Programmes are being sent to all participants that will carry a list of all the sponsors and supporters of the day and the event will be covered by the Guardian.

Coach travel from Warrington will be available.

For more information call Ken Whibley, POHAS match secretary on 499931 or 417294 or e mail kenwhibley@hotmail.com or Karl Mitchell, POHAS treasurer on 415687 or 489414 or e mail karlmitchell@ukonline.co.uk.