BERNIE Fraser was the official victor in last weekend's open match organised by Lydney and District Angling Club – but the real winner was the Children's Opportunity Centre in Coleford.

The match, which attracted 30 anglers from across the Forest, was the third annual charity match organised by the Lydney club and raised £372 for the centre which helps young children with special needs.

The match was challenging with few large catches and several anglers coming away with no fish at all.

Lydney Lake is best known for its bream and that accounted for most of the fish caught on Sunday.

Bernie, of the Cinderford-based Forest of Dean Angling Club, was first with a 19lb 4oz bag.

In second was Lydney junior Matt Grindle who caught 11lb 12oz, nearly two pounds more than Lydney club secretary Phil Davies who caught exactly 10lb. In fourth place was Lydney vice-president and life member John Macklin with 7lb 12oz.