The angler who will have the honour of making the first cast of 2025 on the River Helmsdale, has been named.

John Struthers, known locally as Harris John, will take the starring role in the opening ceremony.

The River Helmsdale Open Day will take place on Saturday, January 11, and will follow the usual format.

There will be a pipe band led parade along Dunrobin Street, followed by a short address from Borrobol Estate owner Michael Wigan, manager of the Helmsdale District Salmon Fishery Board.

This will be followed by the first cast.

Fishing permits are available from fishing tackle, outdoor and country store Glencoast in Helmsdale. There is traditionally free fishing on the river from January 11 until around January 20.

From around 3pm, there will be gin tasting at Glencoast with Ice and Fire Distillery.

SOURCE: THE NORTHERN TIMES