ANGLERS have been left reeling at news that popular piers will be out of bounds in the New Year.

As part of relocation plans Seaham Harbour Dock Company is suspending angling passes to the town's piers from January 1.

The dock company said the multi-million pound project would create access problems.

But Seaham Angling Club chairman Norman Conn said the decision has left members with a feeling of "dismay and disarray", after 40 years paying the company for use of the piers.

"The main problem is the junior and disabled members. Adult members will still be able to use the beaches, but you have to be physically fit to cast for the fish there.

"On the piers, you can just dangle your line over the edge, but it will be practically impossible for junior and disabled members to get enough distance from the beach."

Mr Conn said it would affect the 89-year-old club's annual open competition, and he fears last weekend's event may be the last.

The club is being backed by the town council, which stages its annual Sea Angling Competition for the 17th time this Sunday.

Mr Conn believes the dock company could allow access from the north side, and even said the club would be prepared to install a gate and maintain security. But the dock company reaffirmed that the imminent relocation will mean there is no available access at the northern end to the North Dock area.

l The town council's angling competition rules permit competitors to fish from anywhere on the stretch of coastline between Ryhope Dene, to the north of Seaham, to Hawthorn Point, to the south, including the North Pier.

Fishing will take place between noon and 5pm. There is a £6 fee for all categories.

Further details are available on 0191-581 8034.