PRESS Manor fishery owner Bernie Maher was part of the England team that took silver in the Commonwealth Fly Fishing Championships in Scotland at the weekend.

The team, who also included former Foremark Trout Fishery manager Phil Dixon in their side, spent two and a half days fishing on the Isle of Islay for the annual competition.

They competed in matches on Loch Gorm, Loch Kinnabus, Loch Ballygrant and Loch Finlaggan, showcasing their talent from the boat and in the water.

Maher said: "It was very challenging but we're chuffed to bits to get the silver.

"It is only now that I can look back and reflect on how great the championships were because when you're there, it is such hard work.

"We were getting up at 5am and leaving on a coach for the various lakes around 7am.

"You'd then have around an hour's walk to your venue, where you would fish all day in high winds and heavy rain.

"We were back at the hotel by 9pm and then you have to start preparing for the following day; getting your kit ready and tying flies.

"I feel shattered but pleased that we came away with a medal."

Scotland secured the gold medal with South Africa taking bronze.

It was Maher's third Commonwealth tournament after taking part in the competition in New Zealand last year and Wales in 2007.