A GALASHIELS primary school pupil has become hooked on fishing after competing in national finals.

Fraser Hume, who is only nine years old, represented the region at the Troutmasters UK Junior Final last weekend at Thrunton Long Crag Fishery in Northumberland.

And he even led the field of 30 top junior anglers from across the UK for a brief time with his four-pounds blue trout.

Although Fraser didn't land the first prize following a wet and windy day's fishing, mum Nikki believes it won't be long until her son is back casting from the banks.

She said: "Fraser is already looking forward to returning next year.

"Many large organisations and individuals sponsored and donated fantastic prizes for the competitors, and the fishery could not have made the juniors more welcome.

"In extremely wet conditions, Fraser did himself proud by landing a lovely blue trout in excess of four pounds."

Fraser qualified for the finals after winning a competition at Kailzie Fishery near Peebles.

The young angler has become a regular at the fishery where he receives expert guidance from Jimmy Barrett.