WITH the river still in flood and two nights of heavy frost before last weekend, canals were probably the only choice to the angler, writes Alan Hughes.

And this is where three RDAA clubs held their matches.

Newtown AC used the A1 section of the Kennet and Avon canal at Froxfield with 10 anglers on the bank.

Terry Smith took the honours with 3lbs 7ozs which included a 3lb bream.

John Clements took the runner-up spot with 2lbs 9ozs of silver fish, and completing the top three was Martyn Connelly with 1lb 12ozs also of silver fish.

Pangbourne and Whitchurch fished the A2 section of Froxfield.

Mick Seaward took the honours with 5lbs 2ozs of skimmers and roach.

Similar species gave Dave White the runner-up spot with his net totalling 4lbs 6ozs and completing the top trio was John Nicholls with 3lbs 8ozs of silver fish.

Reading Fishing Club used the Midgham stretch of the Kennet and Avon canal where only small silver fish were caught.

Mark Hornblow took top spot with 2lbs 6ozs.

Second place went to Martyn Hicks with 1lb 3ozs and in third place was Lionel Cook with 5ozs.

This weekend will see the additional RDAA match at Froxfield with the draw at The Borough Arms at Hungerford at 8am.

Breakfast will be available from 7am. To book in, call Mike Sheasby on 07802 414317.