‘FISH on Five’ presenter Nick Hancock launched the biggest angling match the UK has ever seen this weekend at the Go Fishing show at the NEC in Birmingham. Together with four times World Champion angler Bob Nudd, MBE, Nick unveiled the Sport Relief ’04 Midsummer Megamatch, which is due to take place at venues all over the UK on Midsummer’s Eve, Monday June 21st.

The event, which has the backing of the Angling Trade Association and the Environment Agency, will raise money to help Sport Relief tackle poverty and disadvantage here at home and overseas. The Megamatch forms part of a nationwide campaign that will bring the world of sport together and culminates with the biggest match in history at venues up and down the UK on Sport Relief Saturday, July 10th. That evening will also see a night of unmissable TV on BBC ONE.

Sport Relief is inviting anglers across the UK, from all disciplines coarse, game and sea to take part. Commercial fisheries, clubs and associations have already agreed to take part, with more coming on board by the day.

Anglers are asked to donate their entry fee and get sponsored to take part. Winners of each angling Megamatch will be in with the chance of winning the fantastic prize of a days’ fishing with the BBC Radio Five Live Fish on Five crew.

Kevin Cahill, Chief Executive, Comic Relief said: “Seeing that angling is the nations most popular participation sport, we are hoping thousands of avid anglers will sign up for the Sport Relief `Midsummer Megamatch. Anglers can also go the extra mile for Sport Relief by participating in the Mile events on 10 July.”

Bob Nudd added: “It is great to be involved in a nationwide event of this nature. There are thousands of miles of fishable rivers, canals, lakes and coastline in the UK and anglers are sure to create a big splash for Sport Relief this summer.”

Sport Relief was set up by Comic Relief and BBC Sport to tackle poverty and disadvantage here at home and overseas. Uniting sport fans and megastars, the first ever Sport Relief held in 2002 raised a staggering £14.4 million. This cash is working to level the playing field in the UK by helping to tackle poverty and break down barriers through sport.

Overseas Sport Relief is working to ensure that children who are forced to work, or who are completely on their own in the world, get a proper education and fulfil their potential.

If you what to get involved in the angling Megamatch or organise a local angling event for Sport Relief ’04 visit the web site www.sportrelief.com/angling .