Roy WebsterA top Norfolk woman sea angler is claiming the sport's governing bodies could be accused of sexual discrimination. Wendy Metcalfe, from High Kelling in North Norfolk, who is a regular in the England ladies world championship beach angling squad, says she is arranging an unofficial ladies home international between England and Wales on Saturday because 'there appears to be no-one interested in our female side of the sport.Roy Webster

A top Norfolk woman sea angler is claiming the sport's governing bodies could be accused of sexual discrimination.

Wendy Metcalfe, from High Kelling in North Norfolk, who is a regular in the England ladies world championship beach angling squad, says she is arranging an unofficial ladies home international between England and Wales on Saturday because 'there appears to be no-one interested in our female side of the sport.'

Explaining why she has become involved in the administrative work of match organisation Wendy, who was a member of the England squad who won gold in the 2004 world championship, declared: 'It is the greatest feeling on earth to be selected to represent your country and I was absolutely proud to receive a gold medal in 2004.

'However, I'm most disappointed that we lady anglers do not get the opportunity to compete in our own national beach championships which are held every year for the men and their juniors. And that's why I have arranged this challenge match between England and Wales on the Kelling beach this Saturday.'

A spokesman for the selection committee that replaced the National Federation of Sea Anglers match organisation said that women could be selected for their senior team, which was not limited to men only.

Wendy Metcalfe did not accept that explanation and countered: 'Can pigs fly? You just know we couldn't get in a team in what is regarded by the men as their sport and not ours. We have been discriminated against in the world championships.

'The men's team managed to receive around �9,000 in sponsorship last year while we had to pay our own way. Unless we can persuade a generous company or persons to assist us with our travelling expenses to the world championship in South Africa in November then our team will be limited to those anglers who can afford to go rather than those included by a proper process of selection.'

She concluded the latest reason for our lack of funding is that all available money for sport is going to the Olympics. 'It is a different excuse every year so I would be delighted to hear from any organisation or individuals who might consider offering us financial help (01263 710051). We hope Saturday's event is a huge success.Fishing is from 2pm to 7pm and we want to persuade Scotland and Ireland to compete next year.'