PEOPLE of all ages were messing about on the canal in Devizes on Saturday as part of a Let's Fish campaign aimed at getting families hooked on angling and unplugged from the digital world.

The Canal & River Trust organised a free learn to fish day and taster canoe sessions with coaches ready to share their knowledge.

Families took up the challenge in Devizes and flocked to the Caen Hill flight of locks to try their hand at the activities.

A spokesman for the trust said: "Attendees had the opportunity to explore the canal and have a go at fishing as well as canoeing for free. The event is part of a nationwide campaign to introduce fishing as a way for families to unwind, unplug from the digital world and relax with family and friends.

"The events are a huge success and it’s been clear to see on everyone’s faces how much they enjoyed exploring the canal, something many of them had never done before."

Among those taking part was Ashley Kenlock who took to the water in a canoe accompanied by her dog William. Youngster Reuben Collier was not scared to get his hands dirty by holding maggots.

John Ellis, national fisheries and angling manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Canals are fun places to explore. They provide a place for both nature and people to thrive – including your little ones!

“Our waterways are home to literally millions of fish with around 40 different species. There’s nothing quite like fishing for helping you slow down and get in touch with nature. We hope these free taster sessions will get more people, young and old, hooked on their local canal or river.”

Half of Brits will go out of their way to find quieter and greener areas to escape the hustle and bustle of their busy lives (1). Fishing is a great way to unplug from the digital world, relax, and enjoy spending time together with family and friends.

Many people don’t realise that fishing is surprisingly easy to learn and the concentration involved can be great for people’s mental wellbeing. It’s also known to benefit people with learning difficulties. The Canal & River Trust is inviting people to learn to fish and appreciate how fishing can clear your mind, as it’s a great way to unwind and concentrate on the nature in front of you.

Let’s Fish! runs during National Fishing Month and comprises of nine pre-bookable events. All attendees, young and old will be taught the basics of fishing by a professional coach and get the opportunity to learn about the huge variety of fish found in canals and rivers. Many of the events will also include taster canoe sessions where people can get onto the water and experience first-hand the fun that can be had paddling along the canal.

John Ellis, National Fisheries & Angling Manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Canals are fun places to explore. They provide a place for both nature and people to thrive – including your little ones!

“Our waterways are home to literally millions of fish with around 40 different species. There’s nothing quite like fishing for helping you slow down and get in touch with nature. We hope these free taster sessions will get more people, young and old, hooked on their local canal or river.”

John added: “Fishing is a universal sport: anyone can do it, at any time. It can be enjoyed throughout the year, on a warm summer’s day or a crisp winter’s morning by the water. It can provide an escape from the pressures of everyday life and a way to relax and unwind whilst re-connecting with your natural surroundings.”

Please visit www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/lets-fish to find event details for your local Let’s Fish! taster session. For those unable to attend an event but who would still like to learn the basics of fishing and how to get started download our free fishing guide at www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/fish-guide

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Notes to Editors:

For more information, interviews, video footage, or images contact Lucy Scott, Campaigns Manager, on 07789 178506 or lucy.scott@canalrivertrust.org.uk

(1) Figures from a poll, commissioned by the Canal & River Trust as part of its Share the Space, Drop your Pace campaign.

All research conducted adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines. Opinion Matters is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and is fully compliant with the Data Protection Act (1998).

Images available at: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/giuw3upgw0pfgzk/AAA7aMt6tXzq3LkCtcd1u7MWa?dl=0

Let’s Fish video available at: https://vimeo.com/226181668/ccc5788f23

Learn to fish video content available at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiMbOYQeMrfLRi0cs_IT_2o1CE9cfR_q4

Download our fish guide with facts, hints and tips on how to get started:

www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/fish-guide

Let’s Fish events run from 15th July to 19th August 2017.

National Fishing Month 2017 runs between 21st July and 3rd September. The aim of National Fishing Month is to encourage every family member to have a go at fishing. More information available at: www.nationalfishingmonth.com

Our waterways are home to millions of fish, around 40 different species. The Canal & River Trust is the single owner of coarse fishing rights in England and Wales with over 2,000 miles of waterways and over 40 feeder reservoirs. It is estimated that it would cost £40 million to replace all the Trust’s fish stock.

About Canal & River Trust

The Canal & River Trust is the guardian of 2,000 miles of historic waterways across England and Wales, caring for the nation’s third largest collection of listed structures, as well as museums, archives, and hundreds of important wildlife sites.

We believe that living waterways transform places and enrich lives and our role is to make sure there is always a place on your doorstep where you can escape the pressures of everyday life, stretch your legs and simply feel closer to nature.

www.canalrivertrust.org.uk @CanalRiverTrust @crtcomms