The Masonic Trout & Salmon Fishing Charity is a national masonic charity that provides interactive fishing and countryside experiences for people with special needs, including disabled and disadvantaged children, young people, and adults.
The Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire branch of the MTSFC held their recent event at Browns Fishery, located near Great Addington, Northamptonshire. Local Specialist Schools and organisations brought along a total of 22 participants.
Set up on the day was windy and damp, but nothing stops the setup team from for the day. The set up team are the backbone of the charity and cannot be praised enough.
There were 17 volunteer “Casters” (experienced local Anglers) for the event, which was essential with 22 participants due. A couple had to double up, but there was plenty of room for everyone to fish safely.
All casters arrived, selected their swims and set up, followed by the important part of the day, a bacon butty for all. The new photographer for this event was local freemason Kev Jeff’s as Trevor Pywell was away in Spain.
The day started a bit drizzly but mild and humid. The centres/schools started arriving, bringing those hoping to fish. They were soon fishing away with cries ringing out for photos of the catches.
Local Freemason and MTSFC Chairman, Peter Chown had two charges from The Cube, Northamptonshire’s largest independent care provider for adults with learning disabilities and autism. Both really enjoyed themselves, becoming very competitive with the tally ending up with a total of 7 to Elizabeth and 11 to Dillion.
Darren Garley once again excelled in the provision of burgers and hot dogs which, after the morning of high spirits, went down extremely well.
Head of local Freemasons, Mark Constant arrived midmorning and got stuck in meeting everyone and even had his photo taken with the first big fish of the day!
Everybody enjoyed the day, this was clearly shown at the medal and certificates presentation where the atmosphere was electric and upbeat.
MTSFC Chairman, Peter Chown commented “I would just like to say a big thank you to all who attended and helped, without this support we would not be able to continue”.