SCOUTS in Winsford and Middlewich are being given the chance to reel in a badge for proficiency in angling.

The badge, launched by the Environment Agency in partnership with the Scout Association, is part of a nationwide campaign to encourage responsible angling and wider environmental awareness among young people.

The launch coincides with National Fishing Week which offers opportunities for potential new anglers to try the sport, and which is backed by angling and sporting bodies throughout the country.

The angling proficiency badge will include studying fishing techniques, the care and maintenance of tackle, fish biology and the care of fish as well as knowing the water safety rules and who to inform in the event of pollution.

It is hoped that the agency's sponsorship over the next three years will encourage more boys and girls to take up the sport.

The badge offers enormous potential for the future of angling. There are more than 10,000 Scout groups in the country, comprising more than 140,000 Scouts between the ages of 10.5 and 15.5, and nearly 210,000 Cubs between the ages of eight and 10.5.

Ed Gallagher, the chief executive of the Environment Agency, welcomed the opportunity to work with the Scout Association.

He said: "This is a unique opportunity to offer young people the chance to be able to learn more about the environment at first hand.

"The proficiency badge will teach youngsters not only how to fish safely and responsibly, but will also encourage a respect for nature."

The agency already has policies to encourage youngsters to fish - no licences for the under-12s and half rates for those under the age of 17. It also produces booklets, magazines and fishing guides, offering advice and useful information for anglers of all ages.

Bill Cockroft, Scout Chief Commissioner, welcomed the Environment Agency's sponsorship of the badge. He said: "Scouting has always brought young people into contact with nature and Scouts have long been active in learning about the environment.

"This sponsorship is especially welcome, not only because it brings with it a valuable resource booklet to help people gain the badge, but also the fact that it is the first time that a Government agency has sponsored one of our proficiency badges."

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