SEVERAL changes have been made to the committee of the York Angling Association following the death of secretary Steve Skelton.

The much-respected Wilberfoss angler died in September at the age of 55 after a long illness and a waterside career spanning many years.

Mr Skelton was renowned for the time spent bringing the younger generation of anglers through - even after his own son, Nigel, had grown up, and his own successes have included the York Angling Association pairs competition and Dennis Hart trophy.

New secretary Dave Carr said: "Steve was a well known and popular angler, respected throughout the York area, and he will be badly missed by his many friends.

"He was particularly generous with his time for junior anglers, always willing to help them catch fish."

A former railway carriage worker and mechanics lecturer at York College, Mr Skelton put his practical hands to good use with the help of Dave Carr to make a mount for the committee match trophy which will prove a lasting reminder of his time at the club.

A minute's silence was held at the recent association AGM, where the committee was reorganised. One of the club's longest serving members, John Collier, is the new chairman with old chairman Carr taking a sideways step to take over the reins as secretary. Laurie Caulfield remains as vice-chairman and Tony Atkin continues as treasurer.

Highlights for the new year will include a trip to the River Severn in Worcestershire.

Updated: 10:39 Saturday, November 06, 2004