ANGLERS in the Malvern area could soon be spoilt for places to fish if a Leigh Sinton business gets the go-ahead to expand.

Walter Beard, managing director of Leigh Sinton Farm and Nurseries, has also paid close attention to the needs of disabled anglers as he bids to increase fishing facilities at his farm.

Mr Beard has applied to Malvern Hills District Council for permission to build 24 lodges, to allow anglers to enjoy extended holidays at the site, as well as adding two new fishing lakes to the four already there.

He also wants to provide secure, purpose-built landing stages and lodges for wheelchairs users.

Mr Beard has gathered 119 signatures from people who have used his existing fishing lakes stating their interest in using the proposed facilities.

"We hope we're doing what local people want," he said.

"I've lived in Malvern for many years and we're also trying to create something which, hopefully, will do a bit of good for the surrounding area."

The fishing facilities are alongside a mushroom farm and Christmas tree growing operation at the site.

Geoff Barber, head of the Worcestershire branch of the National Farmers' Union (NFU), has personally written to the district council in support of the application.

He said: "Although the area is well-equipped for tourism, there is a lack of facilities for the fishing fraternity who have special needs.

"Two or three of the lodges will be adapted for wheelchairs, as well as the fishing platforms."

The lodges will each have two bedrooms, utility room and kitchen/dining/ lounge area, and will cover an area of land about 10m by 6m.

If successful, the proposals will also see the planting of trees to reinforce the existing woodland on the site.