THE HEROES OF KINGSBRIDGE

 

                      

Les caught several nice roach

War is a truly awful result of unresolved conflict but while horrible humans are in positions of power and corruption, they will always be a threat to our peace and safety. So we should be eternally grateful that there are those that are prepared to put their lives on the line to protect us and our country’s interests.

Casualties of these horrible conflicts are almost inevitable and though those who suffer are ‘only doing the job they chose’ we need to show our gratitude for their courage in any way that we can. So last week, the Wimborne and District Angling Club reached out to military charity Help for Heroes who support service personnel and Veterans whose lives have been effected by their military service and organised some fishing for them at our delightful three lake Kingsbridge complex in sunny Dorset.

Chris Yates talking quietly about the joys of stalking ... and it worked

WDAC Welfare Officer Sean Harris offering some amusing encouragement and leg pulls

committee member Ian helping them to catch lots of fish in the sun

Many of our members attended to help and coach those that needed it and everyone had a great day, with numerous fish caught, including roach, bream and many good carp. Several families of the servicemen joined in and caught lots too.

Rob Hughes showing the way to success

Rob with a pretty ghostie

There was even a BBQ laid on to sustain the Help for Heroes participants so they could catch even more and with England’s International Carp Captain Rob Hughes and the legendary ex. carp record holder Chris Yates there to help, a good time was had by all.

a happy gathering of friends

 What’s more, one or two who never have the courage even to go outside enjoyed their time by the waterside, maybe because they were among those whose easy and light-hearted manner allowed them to relax and catch fish.

 Keith with yet another skimmer

Veteran himself and club secretary Stuart's great friend Mark with another chunky carp

There is no doubt that angling provides rare healing properties and it’s the club’s intention to repeat the dose for Help for Heroes as often as possible. Long live those brave men and women who struggle as a result of looking after us all ... and what we all enjoyed on this day was the smiles and laughter. Happy days for all our Band of Brothers.

friend Steve finally landed this lean and fiesty carp after the sort of battle he enjoys

WDAC's indefatigable secretary and organiser of the event Stuart Hitchman enjoying the moment with Mark