DESPITE a wet start to the spring season, the sunny weather has finally signalled warmer waters sparking a resurgence in the number of anglers returning to the banks for Keighley Angling Club.

Although some of the fish can be a little docile, Keighley waters have not disappointed with reports of roach taking mixed maggot on the Leeds Liverpool canal near to Leaches Bridge at Riddlesden.

Two anglers netted a dozen fish of varying sizes in a three-hour morning session using a combination of pole and rod and reel tactics.

The river continues to be temperamental as fish and anglers adjust to improved conditions but there have been reports of a number of catches as well as fish spotted in large numbers indicating that the river water remains healthy.

Some work has continued on clearing away weed at Roberts Pond while Keighley Angling Club is also paying close attention to efforts being made to eradicate giant hogweed along some stretches of river water.

The plant, which can leave nasty blemishes on anyone who comes into contact with it, has recently proliferated along the river banks and can catch out anglers, dog walkers and ramblers.

Keighley anglers keen to test their skills on the canal need to be aware that, heading west from Riddlesden, the towpath remains completely closed along the entire stretch from Lodge Hill stone bridge (no 194) to the centre of Silsden.