Hearts were in mouths yesterday as the organisers of Cumbria's first-ever 'Festival of Fishing' attended the opening event at Bessy Beck Trout Fishery, near Tebay. Were enough people aware of it? Would anyone come? Were there enough things for folk to do?

But we were delighted. A constant stream of folk from the start to the end of the day meant that we'd got something right. And we were especially happy to see so many parents and children attending. The event was aimed more at beginners than established anglers, but a nice balance of both was achieved on the day.

And now it's your turn. With winds swinging between south and west during next week, those attending our waterside masterclasses should have decent conditions in which to experiment with their new-found skills.

We still have places left at some of these events, so if you're halfway inclined to sample some top-notch instruction, check out the website at www.gofishinglakedistrict.co.uk and contact whoever is running an event that appeals.

And finally a big 'thank you' to Fish and Fly for supporting the event so fulsomely.

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cumbriafishingfestival.co.uk