ONLY six fish were caught in the Erewash Valley Winter League practice match.

The result on the Long Eaton stretch of the Erewash Canal was the worst in recent years.

Julian Garner netted a 13oz perch in the first few minutes at peg 120 and halfway through the competition that looked as though it would be enough to scoop the pool.

However, five others managed to catch a fish – all perch – and Garner had to be content with third place in the end.

Tony Barker won with a perch weighing 1lb 6oz, while Paul Ashley was the runner-up after catching a 1lb fish.