Billy Connolly opens Dee salmon season

Billy Connolly was the guest of honour at the River Dee

Billy Connolly has formally opened the River Dee for the start of the 2010 salmon fishing season.

The Scottish comedian and actor took part in the official opening ceremony at Milton of Crathes in Aberdeenshire on Monday afternoon.

The Big Yin said of fishing: "I find it's meditative, it's very good for you."

River director of the Dee District Salmon Fishery Board, Mark Bilsby, said he expected another good season.

Mr Bilsby said: "The Dee enters 2010 in good spirits."

Broadcaster Clive Anderson opened the river last year.