KEEN angler Matthew Softley’s move to the Cotswolds area has certainly paid off in fishing terms.

After switching to Bourton-on-the-Water from Swindon last summer, he has enjoyed one of his most memorable seasons in 30 years of pike fishing.

Softley, who is supported by Cotswold Angling, caught three pike over the magical 20lb mark during three short evening sessions over seven days at a South Cerney gravel pit.

He took advantage of a slight rise in air and water temperatures as well as suitable windy conditions.

Softley said: “This water is hard to fish. I have caught thousands of pike over my fishing career.

“This is one week I won’t ever forget regardless of future catches.”