THE Government now views fishing as a form of exercise, which means anglers can use Ha'Penny Pier, in Harwich, to fish.

Harwich Haven Authority is permitting anglers to use the pier to fish after the Government reconsidered the ban on angling today (Friday, January 8).

However, the rules are clear that anglers should follow all Covid-19 guidelines and only fish with members of their own household, social bubble or one other person from a difference household.

Overnight fishing is not allowed as the Government's guidelines state everyone should remain in their homes overnight.

Officials have also made it clear anglers should only use facilities in their local area and not travel to far to fish.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport states: “Fishing is allowed as exercise so long as participants adhere to the rules on staying local, gathering limits, social distancing and limiting the time spent outdoors”

A statement from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs added: “Cabinet Office have now officially confirmed that angling can be considered exercise and are hence permitted.”

A Harwich Haven Authority spokesman said: "As the owner of Ha’penny Pier we ask anyone wishing to fish be respectful of other people using the facility and to ensure they dispose of any waste responsibly."