YOUNG anglers fell for the peaceful pastime of fishing – hook, line and sinker. Last week children and teenagers were invited to learn from the Eastbrookend Country Park rangers about how to use a rod and tackle. It was part of the Summer Uni programme wh

YOUNG anglers fell for the peaceful pastime of fishing - hook, line and sinker.

Last week children and teenagers were invited to learn from the Eastbrookend Country Park rangers about how to use a rod and tackle.

It was part of the Summer Uni programme which gives youngsters all kinds of fun and exciting ways to spend their summer holidays.

Fishing fanatics aged 12-19 got themselves down to The Chase in Dagenham Road, Dagenham, where they were properly equipped and shown some expert fishing techniques.

The course taught youngsters about the proper and safe way to fish for Carp in Eastbrookend's lakes, Tom Thumb Lake, Chase Waters and Eastbrook Pond.

As well as rangers and anglers, Eastbrook Safer Neighbourhood Team was also on hand.

All the young people hooked a few Carp and Bream, and 12-year-old Aqib Mehmood even caught a Crayfish.

Ranger Martin Page was on hand to help the youngsters identify their catch and properly release them back into the water.

Kate Jones, 12, came all the way from Upminster to take part in the day, and Megan Stuart and Jessica Ross, also 12, had a fantastic time by the lake.

Calum Barlex, 12, and Luke Saint, 13, learned loads from the rangers and can't wait to go angling again.

Fourteen-year-old Mason Craemer was grinning from ear to ear when he landed his catch.

Park ranger, Gareth Winn, said: "The course went extremely well. The youngsters had fun, learned a lot about different fishing techniques and also how to be respectful to wildlife.

"Most of them had never been fishing before and quite a few now want to take up the sport."

The summer uni scheme, which is in every London borough this summer, is proving hugely successful and popular.

Many free and affordable activities are open to anyone aged eight-25.

There is a wide range to choose from including; sports, arts, music, film, media, digital arts, IT, new media, study, careers and peer volunteer initiatives.

There are also many volunteering opportunities for young people.

Visit www.summerunilondon.org for more information about Summer Uni London.