Longshaw Fishery
Our fourth, and sadly last, event for this season was held at Longshaw Lakes, Sturry, Canterbury.
The weather over the last few weeks has been pretty unprecedented, with rivers and lakes on their ‘bare bones’ in many parts of the country but fortunately for us, Longshaw was not one of them!
However, the forecast for this event did not look good, predicting the possibility of thunder and lightning and torrential downpours. When we arrived there was some light drizzle but by the time the students arrived the Sun started to shine.
The Pupils and Staff arrived around 10.30 and again Anglers were paired with Students then were all set to go. Lots of fish were caught from the ‘off’, from tiddlers to larger Carp, the biggest being around 10lb! A proud moment for the lucky child as most of the other Carp were in the 2-3lb range. Many of the fish put up a good ‘scrap’ which put the Students to the test under the guidance of the Anglers.
On this occasion, we were privileged to have the company of the Provincial Grand Master (PGM) Neil Hamilton Johnstone. I did comment that we have received other distinguished visitors this season, yet none of them had held a rod or caught a fish. Our PGM put that right on both counts!!
The welcome Lunch arrived then afterwards the Medals and Certificates were presented by the PGM after some kind words and encouragement to both the Students and the Charity itself.
Another successful day was rounded off by some words of thanks by Mark Hamer, representative of the Rosewood School.
Footnote: Before packing away, we held our AGM in the marquee. No sooner had we started than the heavens opened and we were hit with torrential rain so loud that proceedings were paused for several minutes. It was at this moment that our Treasurer received the news that the Queen’s family had been called to her bedside –a sad portend as it proved.
With our sincere thanks to the Owners of Longshaw Lakes for again allowing us
to hold this wonderful event on their waters.
And finally, to everyone involved in the Masonic Charity –
The Chairman, The Committee, The Anglers and The Helpers
for all their support this year.
Thank You All!
Our next fishing day will be held at Horsham Lakes, near Sittingbourne
on Thursday 4th May, 2023, details to be confirmed.
We are always looking for more Anglers and it would great if you would like to join us.
All tackle is supplied (but you can bring your own if you want).
If interested, please contact : Keith Heard at keithheard44@hotmail.com
Report by Richard Dixey