Caring Together Charity netted almost £600 thanks to the efforts of anglers in a fundraising fishing match.
An early start saw Caring Together’s head of people Natalie Chandler welcome participants as they picked out their pegs for where they would be fishing from in the event, which took place on a stretch of the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire.
Although it was a windy day, spirits remained high throughout as the anglers bid to make the catch of the day while raising funds for the St Ives-based charity, which supports unpaid carers looking after a family member or friend who has a disability or long-term illness.
After a tense weigh-in, Dave Rose was declared the overall winner with an impressive haul of 15lb 13oz, narrowly beating Paul Greensmith (15lb 11oz). There were also prizes for the winners from each section on the canal.
Caring Together community fundraiser Lynnette Ballantyne attended the weigh-in and presentation at the match, organised by kind-hearted anglers Martin Douglas, Chris Howard and Joe Roberts.
She said: “I’d never realised how exciting it could be waiting to see who had caught the most fish! There was a real buzz as everyone gathered for the results.
“There were plenty of smiles as everyone came together afterwards to enjoy a well-earned drink and celebrate a successful event.
“Between the generous donations received on the day and those made online, an incredible £585 was raised to support Caring Together. Thank you to everyone who donated. Your kindness will make a huge difference in supporting unpaid carers.
“A big thank you to Martin Douglas, Chris Howard and Joe Roberts for putting together such a fantastic event. We’d also like to thank Northampton and Nene Angling Club for generously donating access to the Grand Union Canal at Stoke Bruerne, Rob Scott of Raygill Tackle for his kind donation, and everyone who helped make the day such a success including the hospitality of the Yardley Gobion Sports & Social Club.”
