WORK to ensure a popular national angling event can take place near Littleport is well under way.

Environment Agency staff have been busy cutting back weeds to prepare for the Angling Trust’s 2013 Division 2 National which takes place on August 3 at Ely Ouse, an agency owned fishery near Littleport.

The fishery was chosen to host the competition because it has large bream and roach shoals.

The Environment Agency has cut back weed growth to ensure the event runs as smoothly as possible.

A bank and channel clearance programme has been organised and much of the work has already begun, in readiness for this as well as three other top flight competitions before the end of the year.

Kye Jerrom, from the Environment Agency said: “We are keen to support this event which attracts hundreds of anglers from all corners of the country to a different venue every year.

“One of the biggest accolades for a match angler is to possess a national winner’s medal, either as a team or individual.”

Working with five clubs – Ely Beet Sports and Social club, Littleport Angling Association, London Angling Association, King’s Lynn Angling Club and Pymoor Angling Club - 350 pegs have been highlighted for the 35 teams of 10 competition.

Kelvin Allen, of the Angling Trust, said: “Local clubs welcome the support from the Environment Agency in what is an immense challenge to clear both banks and lilies for this year’s busy event calendar.”