A YOUNG Romsey fishing enthusiast has netted a special award recognising his angling achievements.

Jamie Gaughan, 15, a pupil at Romsey School received a medal and certificate at the Fishing 4 Schools Champions Awards at the House of Commons.

His award was presented by the chairman of the Countryside Alliance Kate Hoey MP and the director of Fishing 4 Schools programme Charles Jardine.

Romsey School is involved in the Fishing 4 Schools education campaign, run by the Countryside Alliance Foundation, which provides short angling courses in schools for 14 to 16 year-olds who learn better outdoors rather than in the classroom.

Jamie’s learning support worker Lesley Taylor nominated him for the award.

Mrs Taylor said: “Jamie really succeeded at the fishing activities brought into school and this was a real boost to his confidence.”

He was one of 28 youngsters from across Britain who received a champion’s award and the presentations were attended by Fisheries Minister George Eustice who praised those behind the project.

Mr Eustice said: “The Fishing 4 Schools programme is a great way to introduce young people to the benefits of angling, a sport loved by millions of people in the UK which contributes a huge amount to our rural economy and the environment. It was wonderful to hear from this year’s champions who as the next generation of anglers’ have been out enjoying our beautiful waters.”