The competition was sponsored by Healey Roofing Supplies, of Dumfries, EPS of Workington, and Broom Leisure Ltd of Annan. It was held over 7 dates during the summer at Broom Fisheries, Annan and attracted anglers from many parts of the country, including London and Falkirk. After six matches 37 anglers qualified for Sunday’s big prize final and everyone went away with a share of the massive £2,800 prize fund.

Paul Joyce’s winning bag on the day consisted of carp, roach and perch totalling 15 lbs 12 ozs. At one point his pole was broken by the wind, but he persevered with what was left of it and still managed to keep ahead of his competitors.

John Wright, Broom Fisheries Director said “The excitement of the day was heightened by what was some of the wildest weather we have seen this year. Several poles and umbrellas were broken during the day by winds gusting to around 60 mph, but the anglers’ spirits remained intact as they endured five hours of rain and wind in the battle for the grand prize.”

Mother nature did smile on the proceedings eventually though, as the rain ceased and the sun shone brightly on the happy winners for the presentation buffet and photos after the match.

Winners

Section winners were: A section: P Joyce. – B section: M Relph. – C section: C Graham.  Ewan Weed, from Ayr was presented with the trophy for the most fish caught during the series, which was an impressive 110 lbs 4 ozs. All four also took home a limited edition Broom Fisheries winners yellow shirt.

Carole Lloyd, co-director, promised “We are already planning next year’s events and there will be even bigger prize money and bigger fish for 2008, as we have been growing thousands of carp, barbel and other species throughout the season. The Broom facilities and tackle shop bring a lot of anglers into the area for these prestigious matches, and several local businesses have already expressed a desire to sponsor events next year which will increase prize money and attract more visitors from other parts of Britain.”

The 2007 coarse fishing  year will finish with a winter series team competition which has a guaranteed prize of £300 starting on October 14th and anyone wishing to enter should register now to avoid disappointment as places are limited. Call 01461 700209 for details or visit www.broomfisheries.co.uk <http://www.broomfisheries.co.uk> .