A fishing club that takes inner-city kids out of the estate and into the countryside is looking for volunteers.

Mike Robbins set up Hartcliffe & Withywood Angling Club two years ago, to give young people something better to do with their time than get into trouble.

A former drug user himself, he knows what he's talking about and hopes to put past experience to good use.

His efforts have already been recognised, as he was nominated for one of Bristol University's centenary degrees, which celebrate community heroes.

Mr Robbins, 56 of Bishport Avenue, Hartcliffe, used to work in the building trade and has been a volunteer for a number of years.

He began with the Hartcliffe Tackles Drugs project before becoming a driving force behind another drugs project, HAWKS (Hartcliffe and Withywood Kick Start), where he is now a trustee and director.

Mr Robbins said: "I have been doing this sort of work, engaging with young people, for some years now.

"Some lads have a few problems and this is about getting them away from the difficulties of the estate.

"I want to help them engage with each other and get away from trouble.

"I helped set up a football club in 2001 but wanted a more peaceful retreat.

"It's more than just a fishing club, I wanted to get involved with something that shows kids a better way.

"We all need to get away from time to time to chill out in the countryside."

The club takes trips out four or five times a week, to fishing spots like Bullock Farm in Kingston Seymour and Stoneyard Fisheries in Litton.

Initially the club was for 12-year-olds and older, but it proved so popular that younger children of eight or nine are now regulars. Mr Robbins said: "Some kids have been excluded but I don't think any are that bad, they have all got good qualities. You just have to spend a little time with them.

"I've lived in Hartcliffe practically all my life and have been where these kids have been.

"The first lot were 16 and now becoming volunteers for the project. I aim to get funding so they can become coaches. There's nothing more rewarding than to see the change in kids, it's just wonderful."

The club has four regular volunteers but if anybody would like to help they should call Mr Robbins on 07884 145098.