Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Longshaw Fishery
Thursday 11th September 2025
Masonic Fishing Charity Event – Longshaw Fishery
Longshaw Fishery, our final cheer
To the last event of this bright year.
A pretty place, where waters gleam
A rippling Lake, a peaceful scene
Trees all around, on every side
Branches full where birds could hide
Yet Autumn’s breath, not far away
Leaves loosened from their Summer stay
Tents and tables were set with care
By Gerry, Guy and Colin there.
At eight o’clock, the Anglers came
Each chose a pitch to stake their claim.
Soon, the savoury breakfast call
Bacon rolls, tea/coffee for all
Gleefully imbibed at quite a pace
And smiles appeared on every face
Though rain was due, the sun held sway
And lit the start to this fine day
At ten o’clock and set to guide
Anglers and students, side by side
The lake where morning breezes played
New friendships bloomed in dappled shade.
With rods in hand, a quiet plan
Where beast leaps up to meet with ‘man’
Corn and maggots, worms to thank,
Anticipation along the bank.
Lines were cast and reels would spin
The carp came biting thick and thin!
Squeals of excitement echoed wide
As fish emerged from the lake’s dark tide
Pulled from the depths with joy and care,
Then safely returned to the waters there.
No classroom walls, no ticking clocks,
Just whispers through the grass and rocks.
A different kind of lesson grew
Of nature, trust, and something new.
And in those moments, pure and free,
We know what learning’s meant to be.
Just after twelve, a pause to dine
Sausages and burgers in record time
Stories swapped of this special day
And of the ‘ONE’ that got away!
After Lunch, the lines pulled fast
More fish caught as the hours passed.
Before we knew, the time had come
To enjoy some Presentation fun
We gathered close, then came the call
For Graham Chisnell, loved by all.
Medal, Certificates, words well-spun
By Graham, oh ebullient one!
Applause rang out and heads held high
Beneath that soft September sky
Their faces shone with pure delight
Each name called out, their eyes alight
The pride we felt, without a doubt
Is what this Charity’s all about
The real reward, a simple case
The joy felt from each beaming face.
Soon time to go, but WHAT a day
With lessons learnt along the way
Then came goodbyes, but not with sorrow
The smiles today light up tomorrow.
And though the seasons turn and flee
The lake holds still this memory
Of fire-kissed leaves and fading green
Fulfilment of the Childrens’ dream
Once again a huge thankyou to everyone involved, The Chairman, The Committee, The Helpers, The Caterers and of course, all of the Anglers that make these days so very special.
See you all next season.
30h April, 2026, Venue Horsham Lakes, Upchurch
We are always looking for more Anglers, so would love you to join us. All tackle is supplied,
but you can bring your own if you want. If interested, please contact: Richard Dixey at – rjdixey5329@gmail.com
