Fishing has resumed at Himley Hall with anglers urged to observe social distancing.

Fishermen have been back on the lake since Thursday after council bosses lifted a suspension that had been imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But they have warned it will only continue if those taking part stick to new additional rules imposed to fall in with social distancing guidelines imposed by the government.

The number of fishing pegs available has been reduced as council bosses have ruled fishermen must be 15 metres apart at all times. Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said:

"We’re pleased to be able to re-open the lake at Himley for fishermen as we know it’s popular and has been much missed. As we are still in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, we have to ask anglers to respect additional rules we have had to put in place to ensure social distancing continues to be observed.

"That means no social gatherings – the lake is being opened up for people to fish, not to catch up with their friends. I am sure we will have no problems, but it goes without saying we will keep the situation under constant review to make sure people are following the rules."

The golf course has also re-opened at Himley, and sailing has also recommenced on the lake.