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| From left to right: David Lewthwaite, Nathan Stretch, Chief Inspector O’Gara, Carnforth Town Mayor, Councillor Pat Woofe, Lewis Nolan (3rd place), David Taylor from Bardon Aggregates, Matt Dent from The Environment Agency, Rhys Douglas (2nd place), Steve Griffiths from Borwickfishing and John Blowes from Carnforth Rotary |
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| PC Marc Saycell (off duty) helping a young person |
Over 50 youngsters took part in a police fishing competition in Carnforth last weekend, in a bid to reel in prizes.
The competition was held at Borwickfishing, near Carnforth, on Saturday with the aim of providing children with a diversionary activity that would also help them gain new skills.
Organised by PC John Bassinder, PC Kath Bromilow and a number of community volunteers, the event has taken place for several years, with this year having the highest number of entrants so far.
Following a day of fishing 16-year-old Nathan Stretch was presented with the Lewthwaite Shield for catching a total of 20.1 kg of fish. Rhys Douglas, 16, from Bolton-le-Sands came second with a total catch of over 7kg and Lewis Nolan, 15, also from Bolton-le-Sands came third with a total catch of over 3kg.
The winner of the 12 and under category was 12-year-old Lucas Barnes, from Torrisholme, who landed over 3kg of fish and was presented with the Myles Bateman trophy. The top 10 fishermen will also receive a free day pass to Borwickfishing. Everyone involved was given a fishing tackle gift bag courtesy of Gerry’s Fishing Tackle Shop at Morecambe.
“We had brilliant weather and the sun shone all day,” enthused PC John Bassinder. “Excellent conditions for the youngsters to get fishing. The sport is a really good discipline for young people to get involved in as it combines competitiveness with patience and a dose of fresh air.
“Everyone involved – experienced anglers and new ones – had a great day and I’m really appreciative for the help and support we received from Gerry’s Fishing Tackle Shop, Bardon Aggregates, Carnforth Rotary Club, Lancaster Anglers and Lune and Wyre Fisheries, together with the Environment Agency, because without their help and support these events would not take place.”