A leading children’s charity hooked a bumper cheque for more than £3,000 following a hard-fought angling match in Suffolk. The event was organised by Angela Baldry and took place at the Stonham Barns lakes, in Stonham Aspal.
Her goal had been to raise £2,000 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), but, with the proceeds of a raffle and cake sale added, the final total was £3,124. Angela said: “It was a great day and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.
“Fifty-two anglers entered, fishing two lakes, and it was a hard match because of the number of people taking part. However, there were pockets of fish which the lucky ones in those areas were able to exploit.
“Afterwards, everyone gathered together and I was able to thank those who helped me on the day. I was also very grateful to the lake bailiff, Ian Woods, for donating the use of both lakes. We wouldn’t have got very far without him doing that!”
Participants were introduced to EACH volunteers Tony and Beryl Golding. Tony spoke about the charity, which has a base at The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
“It was great to get an insight into what EACH does, and what has to be raised to continue supporting local families,” said Angela.
“Tony and Beryl then drew the winning raffle tickets. It took a while as lots of tickets had been sold – nearly £2,000 worth. I’d managed to obtain prizes from local and national businesses, family and friends. Everyone was so generous.
“Local food producers gave their products, from which I made several hampers, and other prizes included vouchers, golf rounds, wellness and beauty tokens, Ipswich Town tickets and a four-night stay at Stonham Barns.
“The final total raised was far more than I expected, thanks to people’s generosity and support.”
Participants were treated to hot drinks and home-made sausage rolls when the match took place on Saturday, 2nd September. Afterwards, there was a weigh-in and the winner of The Old Lake was BT Martin (63lb 14oz), followed by Bill Tiller (51lb 11oz) and Brian Jones (29lb 13oz).
The New Lake winner was Robin Leach, with 33lb 8oz, followed by Stewart Baker (28lb 12oz) and Paul Ready (25lb 5oz).
