YOUNGSTERS were given the chance to learn about angling with a day out a quarry.

More than 30 children, together with 20 adults, headed to Harehope Quarry for the Frosterley Family Angling event last month where they spent time splashing about on the river and exploring the wildlife.

They were taught how to hold a rod, cast a float and look out for signs of fish biting.

It was put on thanks to Frosterley Angling Club, Wear Rivers Trust and the Angling Trust, with support from St John’s Ambulance.

Dave Munt, Angling Trust coach for the day, said: “It was a pleasure to spend a memorable day with two proactive groups, the Wear Rivers Trust and Frosterley Angling Club, introducing family groups to angling and the environment.”

Lizzie Willows, Wear Rivers Trust’s education officer, added: “We all really want young people to be able to explore and enjoy the natural environment; it’s great for their health and learning and we hope that starting young will lead to a life-long love of the outdoors and allow them to grow into adults who take care of their environment.”

In order to cool down, they also spent time dipping in the nearby Bollihope Burn discovering the mini-beasts living in the river bed.

Another opportunity to try out angling and get up close to water wildlife will be on offer at the Whitworth Hall Country Park Family Fun Day, Spennymoor, on Saturday, August 23.

Ferryhill and District Angling Club will be providing coaching and fun competitions for young people.

For more details about the Wear Rivers Trust visit wear-rivers-trust.org.uk and follow them on Facebook.