Gone Fishing for a day’s respite

Warren Muckell (L) with George Cork and his 14.5 lb prize Carp

Seven siblings of some of the very ill children at Demelza House were treated to an excellent day’s fishing on Wednesday 11th August, as guests of The East Kent Branch of the Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity. The charity held its second event at the excellent Chart Fishery at Chart Sutton, near Maidstone.

Peter Brooshooft, the Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master and the Chairman of the East Kent Branch said, “It makes me intensely proud to see the difference that we can bring to people who are disadvantaged in life in some way. Seeing really is believing and I cannot thank everyone enough for their help and support in catching smiles”.

This was the first time that these children had been fishing. So did they catch any fish? They didn’t stop and this was revealed at the awards ceremony at the end of the day! All the anglers received certificates for their success which were presented by Peter Brooshooft. Peter then presented awards to George Cork, who caught the biggest fish, a fine carp tipping the scales at 14 and a half pounds. Bradley Russell, who was declared the best all rounder for the day for his excellent casting skills and for catching 28 fish and Jonathan Gillibrand, who caught the most carp tipping the scales at over 4 pounds.

To close the day, the volunteer helpers were thanked as without their help such events could not be held. That said, their smiles were just as big as the children’s!

Demelza House realise that brothers and sisters of seriously ill children require a very special type of support. Healthy brothers and sisters can often feel left out in the cold, as attention focuses on the sick child in the family. Demelza House offers support to the younger and older siblings of a sick child, so that their differing needs can be catered for. The groups try to meet every three months with the aim of having fun, while sharing feelings and problems with other children in similar circumstances. For further information please visit the Demelza House website.

The Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity (MTSFC) is a Registered Charity and has the aim ‘to bring an interactive fishing and countryside experience to people with Special Needs’. This includes disabled and disadvantaged children, young people and adults. Fishing events are held up and down the country and participants invited from Special Needs Schools, Adult Day Centres and similar places to attend. Participants are introduced to fishing by an experienced fishing guide and helpers, and lunch is provided for them and their carers or teachers.

The next event will be held at the Chequertree Fishery at Bethersden on 15 September 2010. All are welcome.

For further information about The Masonic Trout and Salmon Fishing Charity please click on the following click http://www.mtsfc.org.uk