PLYMOUTH and District Coarse Angling Club became the proud owners this week of a group of fishing lakes on the edge of Dartmoor. The club had rented Cadover Lakes near Shaugh Prior from the clay mining company, Imerys for more than 25 years. When the company decided to sell the disused clay pits, the club was faced with either purchasing the lakes or losing them for good. With the help of a £48,000 Environment Agency grant, the club and its members have successfully bought the site and are keen to turn it into a showcase fishery. 'It is great news and an important milestone in the club's history,' said club secretary Bill Cox. Ever since Imerys announced they were pulling out we have been watching with concern what they would do. 'Now, thanks to the support of the Environment Agency, we can further develop the site and make it even more accessible for our members and the public.' The complex of lakes is a haven for wildlife including sand martins as well as a wide range of fish and other water life. There are three lakes at Cadover that range in depth from 6ft to 24ft. All contain carp to over 20lbs and bream to 10lbs as well as good numbers of tench and other coarse fish. The main lake is about three acres in size and is occasionally used for club matches. It has various gravel bars, lily beds and an island. The second lake (weedy lake) is home to some decent sized carp as well as specimen tench and perch. The third lake, situated beside the car park, is also well stocked with fish. 'We are very pleased to have been involved in this worthwhile project and are delighted the club now owns the lakes. 'The club, with our help, plan to turn it into a family angling site.' said Lesley Newport for the Environment Agency. Future plans include the construction of more fishing platforms to improve access to the lakes for everyone including disabled anglers and better visitor parking. Story boards will explain the history of the site and its wildlife. Eventually, it is hoped the site will be used by local schools for educational fieldtrips. Cadover Lakes will also become a venue for regular 'Get Hooked' events when newcomers to fishing can try their hand at the sport and receive free coaching. The Environment Agency's contribution to the project was funded from increased rod licence sales.