Buddies on the road to boost sport

Their idea is to promote angling for everyone, talk to different community groups of all ages, visit family - and disabled-friendly fishing venues and provide information about angling, the Environment Agency, the NFA/NFSA and National Union of British Anglers.

They will be able to provide information on:

n Improvements to fisheries who are struggling with budgets to provide access for all.

n Festivals - like South Cerney - which benefit many through their activity.

n Individuals who need support relevant to their cause.

Their secondary aim is to attract enough funding from sponsors who believe in the buddy system and bringing anglers back to the sport, to create a base where families, teens, adults, able- and less able or disabled people can fish safely and be offered tuition.

They hope to create as many Reels on Wheels funded fisheries as they can throughout the UK, which will be as disabled- and family-friendly as possible, using local people in each area, local expertise and providing local employment as and where possible.

Nick’s goal is to create a thriving, nationwide community of buddies and be able to provide them with transport, if it’s needed, to help others less able to get back out and fish as often as they can. Ideally, a fleet of large cars and/or minibuses would enable lots more people to rediscover their passion for angling and form lasting friendships. This will change the quality of life for many people.

The Buddy Bus was at Aston Ponds yesterday and was today due at Barlow Lakes.Click to www.reels-on-wheels.org or contact Nick on 01409-240077 or 07877 569204 for more information.

n I thought we'd have a fly-fishing theme this week - and introduce you to the England Ladies Flyfishing Association, who are holding an Open Competition at Carsington Reservoir on September 22. Anyone can enter and the fee is 35, which covers fishing, boat and entry fees. Fishing is from 11 am to 5pm, two fish then catch and release, fishery rules apply.

The first prize is 100 plus rod; second 75 plus Carsington tickets; third 50 plus fly line with prizes down to 10th place. Places are limited to 30 anglers, so please book early.

Entry forms are available at the fishery, telephone: 01629 540769.

All profits go to the England Ladies Flyfishing Association and their supported charity, Casting for Recovery.

On the day there will be casting instruction, fly-tying demonstrations, trade stands, etc.