Anglers from all over the country flocked to Pembrokeshire for a major new sea angling competition earlier this month. Almost 100 anglers took part in the Stena Line Sea Angling Festival open competition at Fishguard as part of Pembrokeshire Fish Week 2007. Organised by the Welsh Federation of Sea Anglers - assisted by Fishing Wales and Martin Thompson, of Anglers Corner - the competition was a PENN Points catch and release match, with a first prize of £750, second of £250 and third of £100. "We were delighted with the response," said Helen Pearce, of the Welsh Federation of Sea Anglers. "The competition attracted anglers from as far away as Liverpool, and there was great enthusiasm from all." The competition, which is believed to be the biggest first prize payout in Wales, was one of many angling events held across Pembrokeshire during Fish Week. Another new event was a free junior coaching day held by the Welsh Surf Casting Team and the Welsh Federation of Sea Anglers at Fishguard Harbour breakwater, courtesy of Stena Line. Helen Pearce praised the commitment of the youngsters that took part in spite of the torrential rain. "More than 30 young anglers braved the elements to take part in the event, and we were really pleased that they had fun and got so much out of it," she said. Rhys Llewellyn, of Fishing Wales, said: "The children were very keen, and fishing into wind and rain that would have put most hardened anglers off." All the juniors went away with goody bags sponsored by Stena Line Sea Angler magazine, and Svenda Sports. It is hoped that both events will be staged again next year. Many of the Pembrokeshire Fish Week angling events were sponsored and/or supported by Environment Agency Wales, Pembrokeshire Rivers Trust, Pembrokeshire Anglers Association, the Welsh Salmon and Trout Angling Association, and United Utilities. Pembrokeshire Fish Week is organised by Pembrokeshire County Council and funded by the Council, the Welsh Assembly Government, South West Wales Tourism and Milford Haven Port Authority. Winners: The winners of the Stena Line Sea Angling Festival open competition were: 1. Shane Russell (Colwyn Bay); 2. Chris Stephens (Bridgend); 3. Joe Arch (Llanishen); longest fish -Chris Edwards.