Fundraising fishing event raises cash for new Fishing for Schools group

A fabulous fundraising angling event was held at Ladybower Reservoir in the Peak District on Saturday (23 Sept) in aid of the new Fishing for Schools South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire group.

Twenty-five people took part in the fishing competitions and then carried on to a very jolly meal and raffle at the nearby Ladybower Arms. In all £250 was raised to aid the setting up of the new group.

Organiser Steve Newsome said: "It was a very cold day, with wind from the south. Fishing was tough and catches were low, but it was a sociable day and the attendees were very generous, some coming a long way to support us.

"The money raised is a great start for the group and we hope to hold a fundraising social event next month to further boost our coffers."

Three prizes were given on the day. The biggest fish – a 6lb rainbow trout – was caught by Ken Hudson, who won a £70 voucher for the Orvis shop in Bakewell. The best bag category – nine fish, weighing 13lb 8oz – was won by Richard Grainger. However Mr Grainger redonated his £70 Orvis voucher, after winning one of the top raffle prizes – a print by local photographer Don Stazicker.

The best boat category - manned by 17-year-old Ben Fox and Max Williams (13) caught seven fish, weighing a total of 13lb 4oz. They each won a £30 Orvis voucher.

Other raffle prizes included a print of a grayling, painted by Fishing for Schools director Charles Jardine and boxes of flies.

Many thanks to Denis MacDonald of Pendle FDG for the prizegiving picture