POLICE in Gloucestershire are looking for keen anglers to become mentors in a project which aims to reduce antisocial behaviour by encouraging youngsters to take up fishing.

Local officers, in conjunction with the Angling for Youth Development charity, run an angling club for young people at the balancing pond opposite police headquarters at Waterwells in Gloucester.

The idea is to engage youngsters, help them develop qualities such as patience and concentration and steer them away from activities which could cause a nuisance in the community.

PC Lucy Winterburn said: "We're currently looking for members of the public to take part in this successful project.

"So if you have a love of fishing and a drive to educate young people around the sport on a voluntary basis, please do get in touch.

"You will be required to pass a course to become a qualified angling coach, but this is all done free of charge.

"If you're interested, but unsure, you can always come and help out at some of the sessions already running.

Anyone with a child who is interested in learning how to fish is also encouraged to get in touch; the sessions are free and the kit is provided.

For more information, email AFYDgloucester@hotmail.co.uk or lucy.winterburn@gloucestershire.police.uk