Northern Powergrid has hooked up with the Angling Trust in a bid to tackle fishing safety.

The initiative is focused on educating anglers about the dangers of fishing near power lines and encouraging them to plan ahead.

Instances of fishing gear coming into contact with overhead power lines have resulted in severe injuries and even death in the past.

Gareth Pearson, Northern Powergrid’s director of health, safety and training, said: 
“High voltage currents can pass through almost all fishing rods and poles, therefore, it’s vital anglers tackle safety before they set off and look up before they hook up, to make sure fishing equipment does not come into contact with our power network."

Mark Owen, Angling Trust's head of fisheries, said: "It is vitally important we follow Northern Powergrid's excellent advice to reduce the risk of injury, and even death, from coming into contact with power lines."