Cambridge United Stadium Manager Ian Darler swapped turf for tackle after completing an epic fishing challenge and hooking more than £13,000 for charities including East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The tireless fundraiser took part in his latest ‘Big Fish Off’ event at Fraser’s Fishery, in Little Downham, near Ely, with the aim of catching 220lbs in 12 hours. He ended up smashing his target by a whopping 154lb and, in the process, raised more than £13,100 – money that will be split between EACH, Cambridge United Foundation, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire Mind, Woodgreen Pets Charity, Arthur Rank Hospice Charity and Little Buds.
“I’d like to thank every single person and company that donated to this challenge as my initial target had been to raise £6,000,” said Ian, awarded a British Empire Medal in the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours for his services to Cambridge United and his work with the Cambridge Charity Fundraisers.
“I know every pound really does count for these charities so felt under pressure to do my very best. As the fish went on the scales, I realised we’d beat the target of 220lbs with a final weight of 373lbs 8oz. It definitely exceeded my expectations!
“Special thanks go to Kevin Johnson, of CB Groundworks & Construction Ltd, who, for the second year, put the challenge forward, with support from the Cambridge United Foundation. It really was a team effort with staff at the football club, numerous media platforms and radio stations doing their bit to support and publicise the event for six amazing charities.”
Ian said he was delighted to support all six charities, including EACH.
“Ironically, my fundraising started 25 years ago because of EACH, having been awarded a testimonial by Cambridge against Ipswich Town,” he said. “I wanted to make a donation and then, the following year, had a similar request from my contact at Milton. I decided to put a fishing group together – colleagues and businessmen who started fishing together once a month and then making a donation. We’ve been going ever since, and I’m grateful to EACH for starting me on this journey. I’ve got a history with Milton.
“As a parent, I feel blessed that all my children are fit and healthy. What parents go through must be so challenging, but the support they receive at the hospice is truly amazing. It provides immense relief and must make such a difference. It’s hard to express the words to describe the work EACH does. I get angry that hospices get so little from the government. It’s appalling, because the work they do is off the scale.”
EACH Senior Corporate Fundraiser Sam Woo said: “We’re so incredibly thankful to Ian. What he’s achieved both this year and over the course of the last two decades is truly remarkable and inspiring. These funds will go a long way to helping us continue our vital work supporting families and caring for children across Cambridgeshire and the rest of East Anglia.”
