Angling project starts in Middleton

Young people with Andrew Poinen (Groundwork) and Gary Leigh (Absolute Angling)

Ten young people have started an angling project in Middleton that will develop their skills and increase their knowledge of the outdoor environment.

The group will take part in ten fishing coaching sessions in Middleton with Gary Leigh from Absolute Angling. The young people will learn fishing techniques and how to fish safely as well as learning respect for the fish and the wider environment.

Middleton Carp ‘n’ Angling have also been supportive of the project by supplying discounted equipment and giving the group lots of specialist advice and knowledge. Middleton Carp ‘n’ Angling ensured each member of the group has a fishing starter kit to keep the young people involved once the coaching has finished.

Three of the young people, with support from Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, applied to Kerrching for funding to run the project.

The youngsters really wanted to put on a different type of project as many of them wanted to try fishing. To make the project more sustainable the group included within the funding bid Environment Agency rod licences and fishing equipment.

Kieron Burns, aged 14, is one of the young people taking part in the project. He said: “I applied for the fishing scheme as I think it would be a good idea for people in the area to get the experience of fishing. A lot of people think it’s boring but in fact it is pretty exciting and fun when you get into it.”

Andrew Poinen Youth Works Scheme Leader at Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale, said: “I am really excited about the prospect of taking the young people fishing. I have supported the group with applying for the funding and I’m sure they’ll all be hooked on fishing following their coaching sessions.”