Ian Hopper and Colin Sargeant organised a 60-peg beach open over five hours at Pevensey Bay which was over-subscribed ten days before the event.

Phil Metcalfe of the Aqua club had a good return for his £15 entry fee as his 5lb 8oz of mainly pout and whiting won him £300. Ralph Crosby of Hastings had 4lb 15oz which saw him pocket £100 and with his catch including the best round (an eel of 1lb 12oz) and the best flat (a flounder of 1lb 3oz), he also won a turkey.

Third-placed Paul Stevens of Worthing also won £100 and with 16 won the most fish pool prize. Stevens' catch weighed 4lb 13oz. The top lady was Rose Browning with 2lb 2oz.

During the match Terri Downes broke the Aqua Club mackerel record with a whopper of 1lb 6 1/4oz which was seven-and-a-quarter ounces heavier than the previous record. Her fish though did not count in the match weights as mackerel were barred.

Eastbourne Angling Association have their annual prize presentation evening at the clubhouse in Royal Parade on Janaury 27.

The beach anglers have to wait until March 11 for their first competition this year and the boat enthusiasts launch into their programme on March 25. Two dates for visitors to note are the boat festival on September 29-30 and the beach on October 21.