An 18-year-old who has fished since he started walking has turned his hobby into a job for life.

Bill Roberts has bought a business off Ian Niece, following his retirement after 30 years delivering fish around the Sid Valley.

Renaming the business Bill’s Fresh Fish, the young entrepreneur said his family was 100 per cent behind him as he sets out on his own.

“I’ve fished for as long as I could walk,” said the former Sidmouth College student.

“I didn’t get on a boat until I was six or seven, but I always went out, even if I couldn’t hold the rod. I remember holding a rod not even a foot long – even that was too heavy.

“I started going out every weekend. If I wasn’t fishing, I’d be at home filleting or something else.”

The Ashley Crescent resident was encouraged into fishing by his dad, Karl, who he said would have worked as a fisherman if he had his time again.

Bill said: “My dad said why don’t you take over the business? I snatched it up as quickly as I could.”

This is not his first go at turning his hobby into a business. He has worked as a fishmonger in Sidmouth, Honiton, Axminster and further afield, gaining new experiences in each that he is bringing to his business.

“My family is 100 per cent behind me,” said the teenager, who is a member of Sidmouth Sea Angling Club and Honiton Angling Club. “My dad’s just had an operation, but he’s still been amazing, helping me get a van and sort out the garage.

“I was never the brightest kid but, in fishing, you don’t really need a lot. You just have fun and it’s nice to do. It’s a hobby at the same time as a job.

“Early morning, I’ll go to Exmouth to pick up fresh fish – it will change each day depending on what’s in – and then come back to Sidmouth once everyone’s woken up.”

To contact Bill, call 07494 534270 or email billsfreshfish@hotmail.com