Crackdown netting illegal anglers

Dozens of anglers across the north-east of England have been caught fishing without a valid licence.

During May, the Environment Agency said it prosecuted 53 people in the region, which resulted in fines of £2,478 and court costs of £3,365.

The action in the North East is part of a crackdown on illegal fishermen across England and Wales.

The Agency said money raised through rod licences was invested back into fisheries work.

Fisheries enforcement team leader Kevin Summerson said: "Fishing without a licence is an offence and anyone caught fishing illegally faces a tough penalty."

He added: "Around £19m is raised each year through rod licences and invested in fisheries work benefiting all anglers, fish stocks and waterside environments."