The Charitable Trust, Get Hooked on Fishing, is being inundated with requests from schools and youth agencies to set up schemes around the country.
The Charity, started 8 years ago by Mick Watson, is considered the largest developer of angling across the UK. It has a unique focus on coaching youngsters to develop wider skills at the same time as teaching them the finer points of angling.
Last year the Trust introduced game and sea fishing schemes to their growing portfolio of projects, they have both produced outstanding results and are being used as role models for similar schemes planned later this year.
Over the years the Trust has taken the opportunity to forge strong links with the tackle trade, coaches and the Environment Agency and is now proving just how working together can really bring in new blood to the sport.
The Charity works with in partnership with local agencies and communities across the UK and is set to have 20 schemes up and running by the end of 2008. Further expansion is planned in Scotland and Wales.
Chief Executive at Get Hooked, Anne Moyle, has the responsibility for fundraising and she has her work cut out trying to meet the demand.
She announced today that they are to launch a Campaign to encourage Anglers to support their future development. ‘ I have never known people so passionate about their sport – so many people have got so much enjoyment out of angling I know that they will be keen to put something back.’
You can become a Friend of Get Hooked on Fishing by sending donations by mail to P O Box 76, Stocksfield, Northumberland NE43 7WS. or online via their website www.ghof.org.uk