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Torrential rain affected the turnout and even the fish sought shelter with few bites in the day so organisers made sure every child who caught even the smallest tiddler went home with a prize.

The junior fishing club at the Clough was set up after fishing taster sessions were put on for school children by the North Manchester Regeneration Forum and local fishermen and women.

Lakeside caf? owner Dave Wilson is a long-time enthusiast for the fishing tradition at the Clough lakes.

He has been the driving force behind the launch of the junior fishing club and is the organiser of the competition .

He said: "The response from the youngsters has been overwhelming. When I was a boy, I used to come here as often as I could but it has been a while since children were regular fishers here.

"The new club, set up with support from North Manchester Regeneration and local schools, has brought the fishing experience back to north Manchester children."

Local councillor Bill Risby presented trophies and donated prizes and was delighted to find a high percentage of girls taking part in the event.

He said: "The weather was bad and the fish weren't biting but it wasn't a bad turnout and I was surprised and pleased to see a lot more girls than usual taking part.

"Over the last few years local schools and North Manchester Regeneration have been working together to encourage children to take an interest in their parks, develop new hobbies and enjoy the outdoors.

"The popularity of the new fishing club shows how these efforts are making a difference. The competition was a fantastic occasion for the youngsters.

"Local fishermen and women have been on hand to pass on their skills and experience to junior members."

The Junior Fishing Club at Boggart Hole Clough runs on Saturday from 10am to 2pm and membership is free. Equipment and bait can be hired for 50p.