Anglers Reel in a Record-Breaking Amount For Mental Health Charity

A 48-hour fishathon has netted a whopping £14,370 for charity - more than doubling the amount raised last year.

Thirty anglers from Anderson took part in the fishy fundraiser for The Lighthouse Club, a charity that supports the mental health of construction workers.

The team from Anderson alongside clients and subcontractors cast their lines at Crowsheath fisheries, Billericay, on August 19-21, with the aim of having fun, relaxing and getting to know each other better – all while helping the charity continue reaching people in crisis in the industry.

The event, organised by project manager Steve Townley and Senior Site Manager Ron “Rocket” Sant,  included a raffle draw and trophies, as well as a barbeque and light refreshments.

Steve said: “This year was all about creating an even bigger and better fishathon – and we’ve certainly achieved that! Last year, we raised £6,200, so we’ve more than doubled that, which everyone is delighted about. The event itself was also bigger – we had more people taking part over a whole weekend this time. We’ve had great feedback, it was a fantastic event for such a worthwhile cause.”

The prize for the biggest fish caught went to Nigel Fayers – whose catch was a whopping 28lb 9oz.

Meanwhile, Jamie Middlegate got the trophy for most fish caught, for reeling in four.

Rocket said: “Once again, we’ve had a brilliant weekend of raising money for the fantastic Lighthouse Club, as well bringing people together and encouraging conversation.

“The fishathon is a chance for people to take time out, relax and chat to others, building on the friendships they have with their colleagues.

“Unwinding and connecting with others is really helpful for everyone’s mental health, so it was a successful weekend all round.”

Bill Hill, CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, said: “We’re delighted to hear that the fishathon has been such a huge success and they have smashed their fundraising from last year.

“This has been a real team effort, or should I say REEL team effort? Thank you to everyone who took time out to support us and raise so much money. Whilst the biggest fish caught on the day may have been 28lb, we think we’ve netted the best prize! You’re amazing.” Sponsors of the fishathon included: Concrete Floorfix, SRC Haulage, Orbital Plant Hire, TL Paving, Quatro Sweepers, JP Flynn Kerb Layers, Longwater Builders Merchants, Longman Electrical, JKS Haulage, Ernest Doe, Hosplant, M & H Testing, JJ Sugrue Plant Hire, Tyrone Plant Repairs, Colin Gleeson CSS Agency, Pattar Agency, Leeman & Sons, Benfleet Scrap, TMC Haulage, Footings & Floors, Tom Blackwell, DA Cant Tarmac, Outlaw Pro Fishing Tackle Shop, Elmstead Market Tackle shop, Korda Tackle, Stanstead Angling, Crowsheath Fishery, Swimbooker.