'PERFECT' conditions accompanied the Annual River Wye Charity Shield, with over £700 raised for local causes.

Over 70 anglers from across the Midlands descended on the banks of the Wye to compete in the annual fishing event.

This year's proceeds were donated to the Midlands Air Ambulance and a charity to be chosen by the Hereford & District Angling Association.

The match ran from Breinton down to Hampton Bishop and saw the top five anglers catching a haul weighing in at over 200lbs.

Geoff Brierley was crowned winner thanks to catching 11 big chub weighing 53lb.

James Robbins came in second place with a catch of 52lbs from further upstream.

Co-organiser Dave Roberts said: "We wanted to expand the event this year to raise more for charity. This is a big title to win in the angling world, and we felt we could raise more money by choosing an additional charity, that would engage the Midland angling community. "Unfortunately, there have been times on the River Wye and many angling venues across the Midlands, where the Air Ambulance has been called upon. Due to the rural nature of these river valleys, the helicopters are often the quickest way to move patients, and time saves lives." He added: "We are delighted to be able to contribute to this charity."