AN easterly wind hampered sea fishing conditions so skippers could only take anglers to local inshore marks.

But that did not stop some members of staff from railway firm C2C going out on Stewart Olley's Predator from Essex Marina on Wallasea Island.

And they found plenty of sport as it was skate on the lines and not leaves for the railwaymen, with fresh herring being the most productive bait.

For further details contact Stewart on 07958 664602 or visit www.predatorcharters.co.uk.

It is only a month to go until the Wallasea charter boat open match takes place.

Spaces are filling up at a steady rate for the match on Sunday, May 25, and bookings are being taken by calling Jetty Anglers on 01702 611826.

Jason Speller and Charlie Keeling flew the flag for Essex at the weekend when they fished a match at Gravesend in Kent.

Canvey matchman Speller and Keeling, from Crays Hill, both finished in the top 10 in a match contested by 134 anglers.

Keeling won his section with five fish for 131cm, while Speller just missed out on a section win.

But he consoled himself by claiming the biggest fish prize with an eel of 1lb 7oz.

Speller has also unveiled his summer matches, which start next month with Speller's Sheppey Open on Sunday, May 11.

All the matches are under the Speller's branding and take place on Sundays. They are: Rainham Marshes Open (May 18), East Tilbury Open (May 25), Summer Gravesend Open (June 22), Fambridge Open (July 20) and Romany Way Open (August 17).

All matches must be pre-booked with Jason Speller on 01268 514082 or 07866 735933.