THE third round of the MUAA winter league was switched from the Avon to the pool last Sunday due to flooding, but this didn't deter another good turnout.

With conditions relatively milder than the last contest held on the venue, sport was expected to be brisker.

Club treasurer John Shaw, drawn on island peg 1, enhanced his well-earned reputation for looking after the pennies by legering rejected bread from his local supermarket.

However, the carp didn't seem to mind and John tempted four of them in a match-winning haul of 13-15-0, well clear of his nearest rival Chris Loveridge on Peg 13. Chris adopted his usual waggler and maggot approach to net 3-4-0 of small skimmers and roach.

Third place went to John Barr on peg 11 with 1-6-0 of pole-caught roach and skimmers.

Fur and feather

THIS Sunday sees the annual fur and feather contest, when mince pies and the odd tot of sherry will be available to those attending.

Meat vouchers are up for grabs for the winners. Traditionally, all members bring a prize to ensure that no one goes home empty-handed in this season of goodwill.

This year's venue is the Severn at Holdfast, draw 9am, but it should be noted that if the Severn is in flood the match will revert to the Avon. If this too is unfishable then it will be held at the pool. The draw time will be put back to allow people to travel.

Notices will be posted at the venue if the match has been moved but if you are unsure, please call Ian Goddard on 01386 750071.