TV star joins friend for opening of lake

TV star Chris Tarrant is hoping to net a big catch in Shropshire today by taking part in two days of angling to help mark the opening of a new fishing lake.

Bosses were also hopeful that former England and Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman could also make an appearance during the weekend at the new carp syndicate fishery called The Avenue in the village of Badger, near Bridgnorth.

Mr Tarrant, who is best known for presenting hit ITV show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? will be joined by a group of high-profile anglers including Matt Hayes, who presents fishing shows on TV, Steve Briggs and Des Taylor.

Rob Hales, of Badger Hall, who owns a number of fishing lakes across Shropshire, said he was looking forward to the opening of the new venture.

He said: "Chris Tarrant came up Thursday to have to have a look at the lake but we are not actually fishing until today.

"Chris is a good friend of mine and we fish together about two or three times a year. He's a very keen angler and if there's good carp fishing about he wants to be there. He likes the peace and tranquility and the challenge of catching the carp because they are quite clever and cunning."

Mr Hales added that former England World Cup goalkeeper David Seaman may also be joining the line-up of keen anglers.

"David Seaman might be coming up with a friend of mine called Max Tottis," he said.

Mr Hales added that Birmingham City midfielder Lee Bowyer had also wanted to join the line-up but was unable to attend because the club is facing Aston Villa in a crunch derby match tomorrow.