Local Freemasons treat Northampton schools and centres to a ‘Catch of The Day’
Budding anglers had a whale of a time at Brown’s Fishery, hoping to get their hands and rods on the biggest fish, thanks to a national charity run by Freemasons.
The Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire branch of the The Masonic Trout & Salmon Fishing Charity held their 25th Anniversary Event at the fishery, located near Great Addington, Northamptonshire on Thursday 18th September. Local Specialist Schools and organisations brought along a total of 22 participants. The national masonic charity provides interactive fishing and countryside experiences for people with special needs, including disabled and disadvantaged children, young people, and adults.
The set up on the day was windy and damp, but nothing stops the team from getting everything ready for the anglers – they’re 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! There was even a photographer for the event - local Freemason Kev Jeffs – who was ready and primed to capture the happy fishermen with their prize catches.
The day started a bit drizzly but mild and humid. The centres and 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.
After the morning of high spirits, the provision of burgers and hot dogs went down extremely well, served by another member of the Fraternity, Darren Garley.
Head of the local Freemasons, Mark Constant arrived mid morning and got stuck in meeting everyone and even had his photo taken with the first big fish of the day!
Everybody enjoyed themselves, 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”.
If you would like to find out more about Freemasonry locally, please get in touch via the Provincial Website - Introduction