ENVIRONMENT Agency officers were out in force over the Bank Holiday weekend to reel in anglers fishing without a valid rod licence.

Fishing without a licence is an offence and anyone caught fishing illegally can expect to face tough penalties, including a fine of up to £2,500 and a ban from the sport.

Not only is fishing without a licence illegal, but licence dodgers are cheating fellow anglers and the future of angling, as money raised by rod licence sales goes straight back into the fisheries.

Buying a licence can't be easier. Just pop into your local post office or other outlets that sell them direct or, for a small additional charge, they can be purchased over the telephone by ringing 0870 166 2662. Alternatively, they can be bought on the website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/fish