LEIGH anglers are this week mourning the loss of a legend.

Benny Ashurst died suddenly on Monday morning in Wigan Infirmary only hours after fishing with pals on Firs Park lake. He was 88.

Father of ex-world champion, Kevin, Benny, of Firs Lane, started fishing as a youngster and lived for the sport.

It was after he was injured while working as a miner at Bickershaw Colliery that he decided to dedicate his life to angling.

In the Sixties he became the country's first maggot breeder opening a farm on Astley Moss, which is still flourishing today, and is also known worldwide for his many inventions.

His wife Beattie died many years ago. He leaves son Kevin and two grandchildren.

Requiem mass will be conducted at 10am on Tuesday at Our Lady of the Rosary RC Church, Plank Lane, Leigh, followed by interment at Leigh cemetery at 11am.