|
LATEST NEWS
David Bird RIP
Top angler to present WADAS Trophies Unfortunately GOT Baits are unable to attend on Saturday's Trophy Presentation but we have lined up an impressive young angler who is taking the open scene by storm. Robbie Taylor (22) along with Peter Upperton have just won the Fish to Win Pairs series that ended yesterday at Sumners. They also qualified for the final of the Angling Times//Maver Pairs at Maver Larford in August. Robbie has had numerous wins on the very venues we will be fishing in the next couple of months or so including Lake John, Monk Lakes and Hartleylands Farm and so will be able to give plenty of advice. He will also be showing one or two techniques that help us all. See you on Saturday night (and Sunday at Willow!) Food will be provided thanks to Anita and events start at 20.00, Woldingham Village Club. Kieran beacon for Croydon Little Kieran Bibb proved to be the star performer in the Youth Games at Tylers Common on May 29 as he fished his first carp match on Ash Lake to finish with 39-8-0 of carp on pole and pellet. The 12-year-old had previously fished Willow Lake in pactice but thi was the first occasion he had a box and side tray. Hopefully this will stimulate him to fish more and perhaps join WADAS. But for Tom Barnard it was a nightmare on Horseshoe where he struggled at peg 52 to get a few silvers and he returned his catch of less than a pound. But Kieran's bag was good enough to put Croydon 8th out of 21 teams. David Petch failed to get out of bed and efforts to raise anybody in his house (apart from the dog) proved fruitless. Tom Barnard to lead Croydon in Youth Games With the withdrawl of Robin Mahachi and the unfortunate collar bone break experienced by Ross Marshall, WADAS's Tom Barnard (14) leads the Croydon team to fish the Balfour Beatty London Youth Games at Tykers Common on May 29. He will be joined by David Petch (16) and Kieran Bibb (12), the latter able to look forward to fishing prolifc Ash Lake whilst the older two fish Horseshoe Lake. With the fish spawning on all lakes on Saturday's practice, Horseshoe could fish a lot better than the open match which saw a big top weight but some anglers blanking. Membership Books update Membership books etc are due to be posted this Wednesday, May 25 and so should reach members by the weekend. Volcanic ash is not to blame for the delay for which we apologise!
GOT Baits coming to AGM Apart from the formal business of the actual meeting, special guests for Tuesday, April 13 at Woldingham Village Club are Trevor Price of GOT Baits and carp bagger Gary Thorpe who features strongly at Rolf's Lake, Boddington and Clattercote Reservoirs as well as Oakfield Fishery and Alders Farm. They will be showing their latest additions to their much respected range of pellets, pastes and additives and you could be going home withseveral new things to try - not to be missed!
Last gasp victory for Longhurst Steve Longhurst netted the Points Trophy for the 7th successive season with a win at Gabriels Farm on March 14 but Craig Winchester pressed him all the way and missed out by just three points - see Match Results for the full story. Charts Plain decommissioning The Committee and other volunteers will be on site at 09.00 on Saturday, March 20 to decommision the water, removing equipment that will be used elsewhere in the future and taking off the locks to allow the new regime to assume responsibility for the fishery.
Gabriels cracker for Points Cup Steve Longhurst and Craig Winchester have to battle it out at Gabriels Farm on March 14 to decide the Points Trophy after Craig pulled back the deficit to just two points after beating Steve at Charts Plain on March 7 Cup crash on rain lashed venue With a match at Monk Lakes called off and the rest of the club members declining to turn out at Woodpeckers, this match went ahead in unpleasent conditions with many so called "waterproofs" being anything but. WADAS started well enough but several struggled to master the conditions. Steve Longhurst's blank spell came nicely to an end with second overall with 41-4-8, However Epsom's Lee Kendrick gave Steve a lesson off the next peg also using feeder and red maggot to put 63-12-0 on the scales. It was heartbreak for Micky Biles who witnessed Dave Bozzie Beard alnd six carp late on his pole line using corn to boost him to second in section. That and perhaps a late carp for the usually canny Paul Oliver would have swung things around. But it was a good match bearing in mind the conditions and we wish Epsom AS well in the next round
Monster perch picture exclusive - read about in next week's newspapers!
Angling Times rides into town
110 Year Old Title Landed By Fish&Fly! “Haiti Angling Appeal” Fundraiser Angling Times SuperCup Team announced The team of eight selected by Dave Harper to fish for Warlingham against Epsom AS and Comets AS on Sunday, February 28 at Nick's Lake, Hartleylands Farm was announced on January 19.
"The fact of the matter is that we have an extremely strong squad and I had to think long and hard about who would fish this round," said Dave. "Unfortunately Dave Cattermole, Bob Stone and others just miss out - I only wish it was a 12 man team. But come round 2 and on a different venue, other's undoubted skills will come into play," he added. Cecil Scores again! Life member Cecil Pocock has done well the past two months, scooping £20 in the November draw. With no meeting in December, the final draw was held on 4 January with Cecil again winning second prize with No 6. The £50 winner for December was Augustine Duffy with No 20. Our thanks to all those who supported this scheme in 2009 Shock as Treasurer resigns Mrs Dawn Elliott has announced her plans to resign as Treasurer and will not be standing for the new Committee in April. The Society are very grateful for her efforts this past two years and wish her all the best for the future. December Match News issued Thanks once again to David Adby for producing his newsletter which email recipients received 30 December. Snail mail recipients will get theirs latter. Get well soon David! Angling Times SuperCup Draw announced WADAS have again been blessed with a home draw in the 2010 event and will host Epsom AS and Comet AS, neither side having been faced before though Epsom AS take part in CALPAC comps. WADAS scoop CALPAC Grand Slam For the first time, WADAS have collected the CALPAC Central Cup, Putney Cup and Invicta Shield in the same calendar year - see match reports. Below are the list of Clubmark accredited angling clubs as at December 2009. We were one of the first three to receive this recognition and remain only one of 11 and the only one in the capital! Match Fixtures for 2010/2011 now published - see Fixtures page - subject to alteration For Sale
RIP Richard Dodds
WADAS win Putney Cup again It was a clean sweep for WADAS in the 2009 Putney Cup held on the Basingstoke Canal at West Byfleet. See full story on the Match Reports page. Lower Thames Championships Our premier event of the year, the Lower Thames Championships - sponsored by Drywall Ceilings and Partitions, has reached the 120 entry mark. And that means that Walton is likely to be used. But the best news of all is that we learned live on radio on Saturday September 12 that SkySports are to send a film crew to cover the event for Keith Arthur's Tightlines programme. Make up will be issued to all the Stewards on Tuesday night at their match briefing!
BBQ a success Thanks to all who showed up and supported the BBQ - a small profit was made and we were once again entertained by Janice Haves despite being delayed by a succession of misfortune. Special thanks to Mark Merrett, Micky "I am up at 4 in the morning" Biles, Dawn and Neil Elliott and Richard Hoy as well as Julia Raines for the use of the garden. Win Keith Arthur's book "Fishing - the best excuse for loafing in the countryside" by Keith Arthur - a cracking read for the angler and non-angler alike - was published last week and there is a chance to win your very own copy by entering a simple competition in this week's Croydon Advertiser due out on September 4.
BBQ - whoops! Due to to a gremlin in the works, the July 2009 newsletter omitted the price for a child in respect of the August Bank Holiday BBQ. It will be £5 per child as in previous years.
Janice Haves to entertain at the BBQ
When Daffy met Sally
Farewell to Keith and Sue Keith and Sue Pemberton are to leave WADAS and England in the next three weeks and set up their new home in Madeira, Portugal. So now we have international contacts in Portugale, USA, Australia and New Zealand. The couple visited the Committee Meeting on March 3 to say goodbye and kindly donate some tackle for the juniors. We wish the Pemberton's best wishes in their new life.. New Water WARLINGHAM & DAS are pleased to announce that they have secured the use of a new water in Surrey. It is expected to open 1 April 2009 following a couple of working parties being carried out. More details will follow in a newsletter currently being prepared. Chairman Dave Harper said: It is great news for the club as it is difficult to find new waters. Thanks to the efforts of David Adby and decisive action by the Committee, we now have an exciting new fishery to explore". Sport England Calls on Anglers The Big One is 27 Years Old!
Charity Event at Tylers Common April 29 Dear All, I've arranged a Charity fishing match for Richard House Children's Hospice on 29th April 2009, see full details below. Angling Trust Launch on Angling TV The Angling Trust was launched last month in London. WADAS has already paid their subscription for the year joining that and Fish Legal, the cost being less than the old NFA/ACA subscription. Click the link to see what happened on launch day Angling or use the link below. http://www.onlinefishing.tv/channel/feature/angling-trust-launch/low/ Siltex dressing applied in Charts Plain
Further Angling Summit planned Reading West MP Martin Salter has wasted no time in calling for yet another Angling Summit in January 2009 with the Angling Trust fiully in place to discuss the new fisheries legislation together with other items that colleagues may like to suggest. The new Fisheries Minister Huw Irranca-Davies will attending 45 minutes or so for a discussion on the priorities of angling. Wylands wins planning appeal A major commercial fishery has won the right to offer improved facilities despite local objections. Wylands Farm, which houses the biggest single lake at 205 pegs in the UK, can now build 15 Fisherman's huts for staying anglers and their families plus a proper facilities centre including a 72 cover restaurant. No more will anglers have to queue in pouring rain to stage a draw or prize-giving, although works will not take place until 2009. Angling Times SuperCup 2009 Draw WELL the draw has been made and Warlingham DAS are one of 90 teams fishing in the Southern area. And fortune has smiled kindly upon us with a home draw; this time we are against Epsom Piscatorials and Tight Lines AC. Whilst no one of match can be described as being easy, WADAS have a great chance of selecting their strongest side to ensure going to Round 2 for the first time. The match is to be held on Sunday, February 22 2009 at Hartleylands Farm Reservoir (confirmed by Paul Ward December 15) and will be contested by eight anglers per side. NFA votes to join Angling Trust and hears that cormorants are off the protected list
An Inspector Calls - nothing like notice - email received Sunday, 23 November Knight, Kavanagh & Page manages Clubmark on behalf of Sport England. They have developed an External Verification programme which is necessary to ensure that National Governing Bodies are maintaining the highest standards in the implementation of Clubmark throughout its sport. Angling Times Super Cup 2008/09 Squad announced
Bye, Bye Baggaley
Mark cliches victory at Charts Plain
Good turn out anticipated for the Len Tutt Junior Cup This Saturday, August 23 sees the Len Tutt Junior Cup match taking place at Charts Plain. With the match being reduced to three hours, this has ignited quite a bit of enthusiasm and there are plenty of prizes awaiting. Those expected to take part include Adam "Moneybags" Stainer, Jennifer Slogrove, Robin Mahachi, James & Rebecca Hoy and Joe Elliott Daniel's Leaver Heaver FORMER WADAS member and guest at Lake John, Daniel Diment has announced that he is leaving Kent tackle store Heaver Angling and moving to Northampton with partner Esther where her work is based. That means the Ash, nr Sevenoaks store is closing next Friday (August 22) and currently has a sale with up to 35% off most goods and up to 20% off bait and terminal tackle. See http://www.heaver-angling.co.uk for location details. And we wish Daniel and Esther all the best for the future.
Keith Arthur stars on Open Day at Charts Plain
Lower Thames Championship resurrected TURN back the clock 25 years and the Thames was the place to be with the last of the San Miguel matches having taken place and Abbot Ale about to step in to support the event for another three years. Fast forward to 2008 and the skip the decline of the river in the 1990s and early Milenium. Record perch, large barbel, carp and bream spectaculars to be had, and there are still roach and chub to be caught. Warlingham & DAS are very proud to announce that they the support of Dulley Ceilings & Partitions Ltd for the resurrected event to take place on Saturday, September 27 on the Thames between Laleham and Molesey. For details on how to enter, see the dedicated pageL. Thames Champs. Farewell Slugwash Lane - almost! EAGLE-EYED members will notice that the tab for Slugwash Lane fishery has disappeared. That is because the new owner has requested that we remove reference to the fishery from this site. We are, however, currently still able to fish the water by appointment only. We have had very little feedback from members about the water and so can only assume that it is hardly fished. However, if you do wish to visit the water, you must telephone David Adby on 01883 712299 and seek permission. DebRA get funding boost from WADAS The Christmas outing may have had a disappointing end at Bough Beech but thanks are due to several members and organisations that helped raise money for our nominated charity DebRA. A special 'Thank You' to Steve longhurst and his colleagues at Simpsons Fisheries that raised £230.00 And an extra special 'Thank You' to Bob Stone who raised an exceptional amount on his own £560.00. This boosted the total to £1,147.00 on the day with promises of more to come from Mark Merrett and Mick Cove. Angling Unity to press ahead LEADING angling bodies have agreed in principle to establish a powerful new body to represent all anglers. ACA win record damages for Wandle
MIDLAND ANGLER, SOUTHERN ANGLER, NORTHERN ANGLING TODAY New Links added 1 November 2007 Click on Angling Links to see exciting new sites added. Craig is Top Angler SILVER fisher guru Craig Winchester is the October winner of the Southern Angler Top 100 and wins a Fox Match fleece in addition to the usual prizes. But it is bad luck for Mark Merrett who misses out by one point in the November edition due out from October 12. Spanish Trip features in Coarse Fisherman Meanwhile, the October edition of Coarse Fisherman has a six page spread by our very own Dave Harper giving greater detail of his trip to Extremadura in Spain. Just £2.95 from good newsagents. WADAS BBQ a great success AFTER the Robert Raines Memorial contest (see results in Match Reports page), members and their friends were able to relax at the BBQ and listen to the music of Janis Haves ho gave a very nice performance. Below are some more of the pictures of the event.
Joe wins rod for one hour sprint
Special Guest for WADAS BBQ
Debra fund raisers are a huge success
Charts Plain THE ENVIRONMENT Agency have been requested to carry out an investigation into to some carp mortalities at Charts Plain. Early indications suggest that the problem is a stress related bacterial infection rather than something more sinister. Members are asked not to use keepnets for the time being and to ensure they adequately rinse their landing net and unhooking mat both before and after their session. In any event ensure that both items are dried out thoroughly after use. FORTY minutes cost Warlingham IT was a real nail-biting finish in the three-way AT Super Cup clash between WADAS, New Addington MG and Judds of Hillingdon but the final 40 minutes proved to be crucial. Judds looked dead and buried most of the match but in the final 40 minutes their Tony Salczynski sprung to life on a seemingly fishless peg 15 and hammered out four carp for 10-11-8 to break Steve Allen's heart.
Steve Longhurst (pictured above) was Warlingham's best score with 24-2-0 for fourth overall in a match that saw 201-14-12 landed between 18 anglers. AT Supercup match too close to call
The Judds star used feeder and corn but dropped short of the stick-ups and landed six fish in the first hour. But a quiet middle two hours saw a change in fortune as the fish came back on to feed with a vengence and he ended up with 39-2-0. Committee in crisis as Keith Francis slings his hook SOCIETY Treasurer Keith Francis announced his retirement from the Committee on December 27 in order to spend more time fishing. But he has promised to mentor his successor into one of the crucial posts. Now the race is on to find a suitable replacement before April's critical AGM. But with Nigel Duff on November 30 having announced his resignation from both the Committee and the club and with secretary Dave Harper also considering his position, there is a real danger of the administration falling down as there appear to be few, if any, volunteers filling their positions. And with other Committee members being hampered by work committments and illness, the Society could be plunged into a tricky situation following more than a decade of stability. "We have had a brilliant Committee these past few years but like everything else, people become a bit tired and want to move on to other things," said Dave Harper. "But now we just have to hope that members reading this will come forward and volunteer their services." Triple Crown for Warlingham THE RIVER got worse during the day after heavy overnight rain but Warlingham A ensured that they picked up the Invicta Shield to add to the CALPAC Putney Cup and the Eden Challenge Shield to complete a remarkable four months. Teams: 1 Warlingham A, 26 pts; 2 Warlingham B, 27; 3 Southwark and Camberwell, 36 WADAS retain the Putney Cup LESS than a month after winning the Eden Challenge, on November 5 Warlingham retained the CALPAC Putney Cup on a hard but fair Basingstoke Canal at West Byfleet. Bob Stone led the B side to victory with a tench and bit taken on pole and caster over chopped worm that went 5-9-8. But with good results from Hugh Blake (4-0-8), Jason Courtney (2-4-8) and Tony Garner (1-10-8) they easily ensured a Warlingham victory. The A side consisting of Steve Longhurst, Paul Oliver, Craig Winchester and David Cattermole narrowly missed out on silver by a single point. Result: 1 Joe Flower, Epsom AS, 6-10-0, 4 skimmers, 2 B Stone, Warlingham, 5-9-8. Get well soon Pete THAT was the message from the match team as they dedicated their Eden Challenge victory, the first since 1979, to Pete Crowhurst who is off the bank at present recovering from illness. For results see the match reports Greetings from John and Mo MORE and more former members are discovering this site and the latest are John and Maureen Collier who moved up to Skipsea, Yorkshire some years ago. For the benefit of newer members, Maureen and John shared the Membership and General Secretary's duties and John was a long standing Committee member who strongly supported coach outings. Maureen sent us an email, part of which is as follows: "Good to see the photos, Len Tutt and Lawrie Way they have not changed, also seeing the one of Bill Barber with Jason in the background brings back memories, Bill never putting up his landing net till he had lost his first fish!!! Saying ' I forgot to put it up'. We would all have liked the first fish he lost. I expect Jason has stopped growing now!!!, Don Boutell looks well in the photos as well, ask him if he has replaced his original hat yet!!! "We're all going on a summer holiday!" And a PB carp is the result for Thomas
How about a free trip to Scotland? Hi Dave You will need to register by September 13 with a view to flying up on September in preparation for filming on September 25. Mill Farm Update August 2006 Just to remind you that we have been informed by CALPAC that Mill Farm is available once again but if you should visit the water and are challenged, you should inform the person that CALPAC have given permission to visit and that the matter should be referred to them.
Tell your friends about the Open Day! AS part of the drive to recruit more members and newcomers to the sport of angling, we are holding an Open Day at Charts Plain on Saturday, July 22 between 10 am and 3 pm.
So please encourage your friends to give angling a go! Kingfisher Award success
MILL FARM, CHIDDINGSTONE ANY member who plans to visit this fishery should kindly telephone David Adby for advice in order to save a wasted journey. June 100 Club Winners The winner of the first draw was No 38 Ronald Tew who wins £40 with No 9 Ann Gower the runner up for £20. New Season matches start positively IT was first blood to Steve Allen at Hartleylands Farm on June 4 (see match reports). Remember to book in for all matches including Wednesday's Les West series.
Clubmark Logo passed to WADAS
WADAS get caned at Stubpond Warlingham were outclassed in the Inter-Club Challenge Shield - see Match Reports Committee axe charity match IN a surprise move, the Committee have decided to axe the Commercial Managers Invitation match at Charts Plain that was scheduled to be held on Monday, July 24. "I was going to hold it one final time this year and informed the Committee that was my plan but they pre-empted things whilst I was absent on my First Aid refresher," said Dave Harper. Oakfield's Pete Alland said: "That is a great shame as Craig and I very much enjoyed the visit in 2005." Got it! CONGRATULATIONS are due to Warrington AA and Frank Lythgoe's team for presenting and having accredited their evidence pack and oh Warlingham & DAS who have also have had a positive assessment. The news broke on Tuesday, March 28 through Julian Taylor of the NFA who confirmed that Wakefield AC was still to complete their work and a fourth club had fallen by the wayside. NFA HQ have to carry out a few tweaks to show that as an organisation they meet the stringent criteria but the award is expected to be made at the NFA AGM in Nottingham on Saturday, May 13. Clubmark News ON March 17 our Clubmark evidence presentation was taken by hand to NFA HQ for assessment and hopefully we will be in line for accreditation. Regardless of the outcome, the whole Committee were involved in some way and many have been on courses to demonstrate that we are serious in our endeavours. Special thanks are due to David Adby for collating the evidence and preparing our presentation.
Trophy Presentation 2006 This will take place on Tueasday, May 23 at Woldingham Village Institute. There will be a special guest speaker also. Meantime please return your trophies to Lawrie Way for engraving by March 25 Lawrie Receives Award
The Angling Apprentice gets his membership!
ACA get musical boost FANS of Keith Arthur's Fisherman Blues may have occasionally heard Martyn Halsey's contribution to the top of the show in the form of Lilypad Lake, a very nice song that has been released to CD and raising money for the Anglers Conservation Association. To hear a sample, go to http://lilypadlake.co.uk or better still buy it and support the work of the ACA.
Simply the Best! THAMES Trinity had their first practise at Charts Plain on January 22 and saw Eric Best land three out of five carp hooked at peg 4 on the scales for 8-14-0. At peg 3 John Colvin had 1-14-0 of roach and rudd whilst Pat Tigwell at peg 6 put back around 2 lb of roach after being wound up by John and Eric! Both Thames Trinity and Epsom Piscatorials will be practising on Sunday, February 12 at Charts Plain, two weeks before the actual match. New Coaching website Steve Gray has launched a new angling website that features Charts Plain via Bob le Ray's apprenticeship. Have a look at www.allthingspiscatorial.com Environment Agency back WADAS Open Day THE Environment Agency have backed our proposed open day on Saturday, July 22 at Charts Plain. And that will in turn pay for NFA coaches to attend to give newcomers to the sport a chance to see what fishing is all about. And with a major tackle retailer also promising to attend coupled with the help of portable IT, prospective members can have a one-stop-job for joining immediately and buying some tackle at a knock-down price. Warlingham draw at home in AT/VDE Clubman Supercup WE are due to play hosts to Thames Trinity and Epsom Piscatorials on Sunday February 26 at Charts Plain in what should be cracking contest. With the rules of the competition allowing the opposition to practice up to three times, Epsom Piscatorials will be at Charts Plain (with escort) on Sunday, January 15 and we wish them a very good day. Plod lands barbel but picture lost Our Bristol based member, Nigel "Plod" Cranham has landed a personal best barbel of 13-8-0 from a free section of river. Fishing the Upper Avon at Chippenham, he did well to land the fish but less well with the picture as a fault on his digital camera robbed him of a fine reminder of his achievement. Full story in the February newsletter Hangover Open on Medway With the Committee Match being shifted to Charts Plain on January 15, there is an opportunity for all members to take part in a Hangover match on the River Medway at Maidstone on Sunday, January 1 2006. The draw will take place at B&Q car park 08.30 with fishing between 10.00 and 15.00. It is also likely to be a live match in Angling Times. There will be a 100% pay-out on tickets costing £10 with an optional £5 WTA pool. Tickets/bookings via Dave Harper on 07956 163414. Bob bags up at Charts Plain AFTER 40 years of absence from the sport, Hampton Court angler Bob LeRay decided to resume and called upon the services of NFA coach and WADAS secretary after making a plea for help on Keith Arthur's Fisherman's Blues on Talksport Radio (every Saturday and Sunday between 6 am and 8 am on 1053/1089 AM). A keen all round sportsman, especially wicket keeping saw Bob stumped when he handled a long pole for the first time at Charts Plain on November 5. But under Dave's guidence, he was soon into the roach using maggot over caster. Inevitably a switch to caster produced better fish and third put in a superb 7 lb carp which he played out successfully using white hydro elastic. More fish followed to pole and pellet and the 56-year-old scored over 30 lb on his return to the sport and not suprisingly intends to join the club. "I was concentrating so much on the float that I couldn't take in the wildlife, though I heard plenty of it," enthused Bob.
WADAS to take on Daiwa Dorking once again? Warlingham may make a return to the Surrey Winter League next season after an absence of a decade. Although Daiwa Dorking have been league champions for a generation, the league now allows two teams to go through to the semi-final stage. And with teams now reduced to ten it allows Warlingham to field a strong side from existing resources without having to rely on new members. WADAS to pilot Clubmark scheme National Federation of Anglers member clubs are being encouraged to support Clubmark, an accreditation that is recognised by sports partnerships up and down the country. This shows that the organisation has taken steps to offer coaching, child protection, equity in a safe environment. Warlingham & DAS are the only club in the south to be featured on the pilot (i.e. south of Yorkshire/Lancashire/Cheshire) and we hope to receive accreditation early in 2006. Croydon storm to final THERE was no stopping Croydon in their march to defend their silver medal and perhaps win gold in the London Borough Youth Games final as they crushed the opposition in the qualifier at Tyler's Common fishery, near Brentwood. Jake Marshall led the charge at peg 14 with a superb 18-3-8 mixed bag taken on both feeder and pole with mainly casters on the hook. This was in itself enough to secure qualification but he was backed up by club member Bradley Garner on peg 52 who scored 8-0-0 for fourth overall. The third member of the team was Paul Jones at peg 30 who contributed 4-3-0 Longhurst shatters three hour evening record ON a patchy first contest in the Les West Cup fished on June 8 at Charts Plain, Steve Longhurst offered pole and corn over pellets at peg 3 to plunder 49 lb of carp plus ounces of silver fish for 49-5-0. Near 20 lb common carp at Charts Plain NEW member Dennis Baldwin got off to the best possible start at Charts Plain on Thursday, June 2 landing a near 20 lb common carp. The fish weighed a level 20 lb in the net but estimated the true weight was 19-2-0. Full story and pix to follow. Inter Club Challenge Shield A COLD easterly wind made the going tough at Stubpond's Plantation Lake for this team of seven event. And the WADAS team of Dave Harper, Colin and Eddie Derrick, Hugh Blake, Dreek Vincent, Don Boutell and Brian Wales found it was difficult to get around the fickle conditions. Only Dave Harper and Colin Derrick were able to keep up with Stubpond's regulars finishing second in their sections to earn £32 each, Dave's 29-0-0 giving him eighth overall, though six lost carp cost him dearly as Zak Brown's 77-14-0 was only a dozen carp. Drawn at peg 1 and with pegs 2-4 empty, Zak fished meat over meat close in to easily beat Dave Walker's 52-2-0 second placed effort. Teams: 1 Stubpond Meatbashers, 36 pts; 2 Surrey Mirror, 27; 3 South Norwood, 26; 4 Reigate AS, 22; 5 Warlingham DAS, 19; 6 Odds and Sods, 8. Final Points and Weights Tables on Match Reports Tab OUR Trophy Presentation is on Tuesday, May 24 at Woldingham Village Club when we also hold the tackle auction that had to be postponed from the AGM. See you there! Steve nets Points and Weights Championship despite blanking at Charts Plain ON a patchy Charts Plain attended by 22 anglers on March 13, nine anglers failed to weigh in, the left hand bank being particularly tough. But Steve Longhurst, who was at permanent peg 15 was still smiling afterwards despite his dry net as he had successfully lifted the Points and Weights trophies. Top rod on the day was Steve Allen who had fished a feeder and triple red maggot clipped up from the island swim. His last gasp 8 lb carp which he had to hang on to for a full two minutes before being able to gain line, added to seven others gave him 32-13-0. Dave Harper was drawn on permanent peg 17 and caught nine carp on pole and maggot, alternating with corn over maggots to land nine carp for 32-1-0 whilst Mark Merrett clinched third spot with six carp on feeder and pellet filled feeder from peg 7 for 22-15-0. Late rally by Peter OUR penultimate outing of the season was to the Wey Navigation at Send where the going was tough with five out of 11 blanking. Godalming cruise to Supercup win Godalming AS won the 3 way Angling Times Super Cup qualifier with 33 points beating Warlingham and New Addington B. Warlingham opted to fish the match on the River Eden at Chiddingstone having been drawn as the 'home' team but, despite having 1st and 2nd placed individuals, came second with 16 points having suffered five blanks from eight. New Addington MG B were third with 15 points. Top rod on the day was Phil King who had 4-5-0 of small chub on pole and maggot over caster but lost a good fish. Mark Merrett was second with a solitary chub of 1-13-8 on pole and pinkie whilst Godalming angler John Wilkins was third with a mere 0-9-8. But the extreme conditions made weighing in a nightmare as the net froze in between anglers making it more like a kite in the wind. Steve back at the helm IT is rare that Steve Longhurst is off the winner's podium but he did well on a chilly Basingstoke Canal where is soon became obvious that the fish were shoaled tightly near Heathvale Bridge.
This was reflected in the fact that nobody caught above peg 8 on the day. Mark Merrett lost a bream estimated at 3 lb that would have won hinm the match but had to settle for joint fourth place with Steve Allen on 1-15-0. On his last visit, David Cattermole scored an impressive victory but could only manage 2-4-0 next to the bridge, Steve Longhurst alternating between punched bread, pinkie, worm and caster for 3-4-8 of mostly roach.
Rare Win as Lawrie Shows the Way THE Eden at Chiddingstone was extremely tough for 17 anglers, Lawrie Way taking top honours with a solitary chub on pole and maggot over pinkies for 2-9-8 taken half an hour after the start. Peter Crowhurst was second with 1-3-0 of bits, Dave C King third on 1-2-8 with david Cattermole fourth with 1-1-8. Notice is hereby given that the 57th Annual General Meeting of the Society will be held on Tuesday, 22 February 2004 at the Woldingham Village Club, at 20.00 Apart from the formal business, there will be an auction of Dennis Wride's fishing tackle which has been kindly donated to us by Dennis's surviving brother Tony and his family. Items include rods, reels and other items covering coarse and game fishing, a reserve being in place for certain lots. Details in the February newsletter which is out now. Bitter chill on Medway yields good results THERE was an average bag of 4 lb 4 oz on the trip to Wateringbury on January 23 attended by 10 hardy souls. Pick of the bunch was Steve Longhurst at peg 2 who fished at seven and 11 metres with pole and red maggot over groundbait for 11-2-0 of roach and skimmer bream.
Mark Merrett at peg 9 must have thought floodwater was coming as he had a six gram pole float on but managed to land a 3 lb bream on maggot plus two others on the feeder for 9-3-0 whilst Kevin Longhurst at peg 1 had a similar catch to his brother that went 6-14-8. Robin Mahachi was rueing the fact that he left his wellies at home as trainers and marshy ground don't mix. He spent much of the day barefoot and so will remember next time - or will he? Meanwhile Lawrie Way was also embarrassed but used plastic carrier bags over his shoes.
Dennis gets a good send off OVER 25 members and ex WADAS members attended Dennis Wride's funeral at Warlingham on Wednesday, 19 January. For full story read the February newsletter which carries a tribute to the great man. X Certificate on River Wey THIS was a poor match on January 9 fished against Woking DAA on their section of the Wey at Send. Two Woking anglers caught, one 4oz and the other a solitary bleak to give the home side 0-4-4 whilst Kevin Longhurst had a 0-3-0 chub, a pound pike not counting. The rest of the 15 spent their time tidying their tackle boxes! Trophy Man dies ONE less face will be at this year's August barbeque means another headache for competition secretary Lawrie Way. Gerry Trimm of Wallington who has engraved the Society's trophies for 25 years passed away late November. Apart from the engraving, Gerry was very helpful in helping design new replicas at a very cost effective price and was a good friend of WADAS. Our condolences to his wife and children. Dennis Wride RIP
Society chairman Dennis Wride peacefully passed away on the morning of Sunday January 2 2005 following a series of strokes that had kept him in hospital since November. He was without doubt one of the staunchest supporters of the club for over half a century and our thoughts are with his surviving brother. The funeral will take place on Wednesday, January 19 at St Christopher's Church, Chelsham Road, Warlingham commencing at 13.30 with an internment at 14.00 at nearby Green Lawns Memorial Park. All are welcome but no flowers please. President Len Tutt is expected to provide the Euology. The Society are providing a wreath and David Adby is collecting donations for Marie Curie Cancer Care to benefit Harestone House, Harestone Valley Rd, Caterham.
Newsletter now out Look out for the December newsletter which has all the up to date news but the magic of the internet allows some updates: Congratulations to Adam Stainer for winning the Peter Norris Junior Cup at Charts Plain on December 12. Drawn on the steps, he landed one small carp plus lots of roach on pole and maggot over groundbait for 7-8-8 to beat Robin Mahachi who also had a carp on bread plus roach and rudd on caster for 2-9-0 from peg 3.
Ralston on a Roll at Fairlight Carp and Bream were the order of the day as Peter Ralston notched up his second win on the trot at Fairlight Fishery. Peter annihilated the other 14 anglers with an impressive 44-2-8 mixed bag. The rest of the field were some way behind with the next 3 places going to Mark Merrett ( 16-9-0 ), Peter Crowhurst (15-1-0 ) with current club champion Steve Longhurst 4th with 13-5-8. Chiddingstone victory for Peter Ralston Peter Ralston finally got the win he deserved on the River Eden at Chiddingstone. Peter, who has done consistantly well on this venue for the last few visits, put 5-14-0 on the scales to beat David Adby ( 5-1-0 ) into second place. David himself must be wondering what he has to do to win at this venue after just missing out on a few occasions ! Eddie Derrick was 3rd with 4-10-8 and Lawrie Way caught over 120 fish for a fourth placed 3-12-0. Dave Cattermole wins on Wey Nav. but Warlingham come second Dave Cattermole was top individual with 4-3-0 on the Wey Navigation Canal at Pyrford in our friendly match with Hackbridge AC on October 31st. 35 anglers fished with Warlingham fielding 15 and Hackbridge 20. Hugh Blake ( 3-8-0 ) and Peter Rawlston ( 3-1-0 ) also did well for Warlingham but it wasn't quite enough on the day with Hackbridge's top 15 weights for 19-11-0 beating Warlingham's 18-10-0 and gaining revenge for last years fixture. Latest News: Mark Merrett retains the Summer League Trophy ON a windswept Weirwood Reservoir, Phil King romped home with 23-15-0 which was mainly roach and skimmers plus a bonus 3 lb bream all taken on a groudbait feeder and maggot. Bites were hard to detect and it seems nobody considered using braid to enhance the plucks but Mark Merrett was second with 6-6-8 and Pete Crowhurst third with 5-11-0. Mark's effort gave him 56 pts, enough to retain the Summer League Trophy, Phil King coming second with 51 followed by Steve Longhurst on 46. NFA Seminar at Nottingham ANGLING'S Freshwater governing body, the National Federation of Anglers are to hold a one day seminar at the National Watersports Centre at Holme Pierrpont, Nottingham on Monday, November 1. "The Future of Freshwater Angling" will be chaired by Martin Salter MP and formally opened by the Sports Minister, Richard Caborn MP. Speakers will include Dr Dafydd Evans of the Environment Agency, Richard Wightman and Dr Keith Hendry the NFA Biologist. There are 150 spaces available and if any WADAS member wishes to attend (free lunch and refreshments!) please contact Dave Harper urgently. Longhurst wins again but Godalming AS miss out THE friendly contest between WADAS and Godalming AS on October 17 on a coloured River Medway at Wateringbury was a non event following the late withdrawl of the four visiting side who were destined to come but their Roger Howe pledged to return next time - provided it didn't clash with a winter league fixture. The 10 WADAS members who turned up held a contest which was won by Steve Longhurst who was drawn below the otter sanctuary who offered pole and red maggot over groundbait to land 10-3-0 of roach and skimmer bream.
Was record gudgeon lost on Eden Challenge? TONY Garner will never know if the huge pongo gudgeon he lost at the net would have smashed the UK record, the estimated 6 oz fish disappearing for ever as he competed in the 2004 Eden Challenge on October 10. But Tony did well with pole and maggot at peg 2 on Chiddingstone to land a chub of 1.5 lb plus roach and gudgeon for 6-4-0 and third place. Meanwhile, Phil King had won the match in the first two hours landing nine bream, the largest being an estimated 8 lb in just two foot of water as he fished pole and red maggot at peg 22 to put 37-8-8 on the scales, the last three hours being spent biteless. Fishing at Penshurst, Jason Courtney struggled for most of the match before a change of tactics in the last hour rewarded him with a 3lb+ Tench 30 minutes from time for a total weight of 5-11-0 and a section win. Russ Evans of Holland AS was also at Chiddingstone and he had a nice mixed bag of bleak, dace, chublets, roach, gudgeon and perch that went 8-7-0, also on pole and maggot to help lead his team to victory with 63 pts, Warlingham putting in their best performance for years, finishing on 60, Edenbridge on 58 and CALPAC on 36. Hugh shows 'em at Framfield HUGH Blake won his second match of the season after drawing noted peg 49 on Spring Lake. In the first three hour period he put 46-8-8 on the scales caught mainly using wagler tactics and later added another good weight mainly on the pole close in for 83-2-8. But Steve Allen wasn't far behind using a Method Feeder at peg 46 to land 81-12-0 followed by Scott Denton who had 71-8-8 and Steve Longhurst on 55-6-8. Thames Pollution latest Secretary and NFA NEx member Dave Harper hasn't given up in his fight to get Thames Water to solve the pollution problems following the August fish kill. Although Thames lawyers have claimed in a letter there is nothing in law that can be done, Dave is discussing tactics with a well known firm of lawyers who specialise in environmental matters to see if there is a remedy as well as press for OFWAT to clear the proposals for the Interceptor Tunnel which could help stop much of the problem. Longhurst scores again at Hartleylands Farm STEVE Longhurst once again scored a victory on September 12 at Nick's Lake, Hartleylands Farm near Cranbrook, pole and maggot giving him 39-6-8 of which only 2-3-0 was silver fish, the rest being made up of small carp.
Bill Barber passes on to that great fishery in the sky.
It is with great regret that the Society learned that life member Bill Barber passed away earlier today (5 August 2004) on the eve of the Old Boys Reunion. A staunch supporter of the coach outings until their abolition, Bill retired to Polegate but made the effort to come up for the annual reunion. He is pictured above with Jason Courtney at last year's event. Our thoughts are with his wife and family at this difficult time. Steve sacks up at Longmoor Farm OUR first visit to Longmoor Farm saw loads of fish cruising about but far less feeding, especially on the right hand bank. But Steve Longhurst did well using pole and various baits over pellets to land 79-9-8 of carp and small tench for victory. Eddie Derrick at the next peg had a purple patch when Steve struggled (or he would have surely broken the ton) and caught close in but wasn't able to catch up enough and so settled for second place with 53-4-0, Bob Stone coming third with 42-8-0. Certainly worth another visit as the venue is closer than say Wylands. Blustery weather for 3rd Round of Les West Cup STEVE Allen's dream of winning his third match in a row was blown out of the water by a sparkling performance by Jason Courtney who hammered out 8-8-0 of silver fish from peg 2 using pole and pinkie over Sensas cloud. On a day when the carp were causing problems, Steve Longhurst on peg 16 managed 3-2-0 for second spot despite hooking no less than 10 carp. Pete Crowhurst was third from peg 4 with 3-0-8 which included a 0-11-8 roach and 0-8-0 rudd. Table after 3 rounds
Brookhouse provides double ton OR more correctly two anglers broke the magic ton mark on June 20 led by David Cattermole who fished feeder and double caster at peg 36 to put 108-8-0 of carp on the scales to edge it over Scott Denton who was using method feeder and double red maggot for 101-8-0. Steve Longhurst was on the pole tight to the island for 56-4-0 for third spot ahead of Mark Merrett's 47-5-0 effort. Longhurst celebrates family addition with win AFTER missing the first round of the Les West Cup at Charts Plain on Wednesday June 9, Steve Longhurst bounced back at Furze Farm following the birth of his son Richard William with a fine win. Look out for details shortly but meanwhile warmest congratulations to him and his wife. Bright start at Barretts Park Farm THE first club match of the season saw some good catches of carp and a last minute drama for Dave King Jnr. Fishing peg 1 with pole and red maggot over white maggot and corn, he landed four good carp plus pasties before hooking a good fish with 10 minutes left. This fish was landed on the whistle but then the landing net collapsed! Bradley Garner at the next peg came to the rescue with his net and the fish still attached to the pole gear was landed, a fine 13-11-0 common to boost his weight to 45-1-0. Kevin Longhurst at peg 3 had a bright start landing the first fish of the new campaign and went on with pole and corn and pellet to land four good carp and pasties for 30-6-0, brother Steve Longhurst landing 28-7-0 of carp to 3 lb on pole and maggot from peg 16. Peter Ralston was fourth fromn peg 6 on the dam wall with 27-5-0 whilst Dave Harper on peg 19 gave Tony Garner a tanking off the next peg with 25-1-0, Tony managing a miserly 13 lb. Great turnout for the prize-giving
OVER 40 people turned up for the 2004 prize-giving despite the West Ham v Ipswich play-off game watched by 15 people at Woldingham Village Club. Society Chairman, Dennis Wride (left), is seen presenting Robin Mahachi with his trophy whilst Lawrie Way does the announcements. Former Railway Station for sale, offers are invited in the region of £400,000 THAT'S the expected value of the NFA HQ at Egginton Junction that is being put up for sale following the decision to move into the National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont just south of Nottingham. The long overdue move, the Derby HQ being seen as unsuitable as an ideal modern office, will see the NFA camp with Sport England. Vice President John Mitchell said: "There may be opportunity for expansion if we need to and the on-site facilities are fantastic." George Atkins, the Sport England client manager at the NWC is delighted the NFA have decided to locate. "The move has obvious benefits for us all and I know the NFA will be happy here. We are surrounded by water and the centre has ideal facilities for coaching and holding seminars. The NFA is acknowledged as one of the top International medal winning organisations in the country and the teaching facilities here will help angling to maintain that high standard." Next Season's Highlights
The above gives a good idea of the type of venue that we visit. Guests are welcome on venues where there is no restriction on numbers. Medway produces the goods Although only ten anglers braved the elements on the River Medway at Wateringbury for the Les Ball Cup, weights were good. Steve Allen took top honours from the peg just above the wood where feeder and worm gave him 12 bream plus skimmers for 30-10-0. Mark Merritt also had roach in his second placed catch of 23-7-8 using pole tactics with worm or maggot on the hook, whilst Colin Jerrom had a good finish to an otherwise disappointing season finishing third with 11-4-0. Tough on the Thames for Juniors The Thames at Hampton Court, opposite Taggs Island was the venue for the Thames Junior Shield but it was a grueller with no fish being landed. However, at the least the youngsters had plenty of casting practice, the clear conditions making pole fishing a least likely method. Specimen Chub for Courtney In an incident packed match on the Eden at Chiddingstone, Jason Courtney landed a stunning 5-11-0 chub on pole and worm after struggling for two hours with just a caster caught minnow to show. "I decided to give chopped worm and caster in groundbait a go and it paid off with two chub having a go on worm, " said Jason. This gave him a 7-2-0 victory to thwart David Adby who fished stick float and maggot for approximate 200 roach, bleak and chublets for 5-11-8. David Cattermole did well to land a 5-5-0 pike that grabbed hold of his roach for 5-11-0 and third place but Mark Merrett did not fare so well, his 1 oz roach being left for dead by his pike that let go. Bread does it on the Basingstoke Canal WITH David Cattermole and Tony Garner getting lost and deciding home was more attractive in the chilly, blustery conditions, Mark Merrett on end peg 1 had a fairly straight forward match. Fishing pole and punched bread gave him a 2 lb bream plus 14 roach for 2-14-0 to beat Steve Allen at peg 3 who had a late pound perch taken on pole and triple red maggot to add to an early skimmer and two roach on punch for 1-10-8. This just pipped Bob Stone who had 20 roach on punch and two late perch on pinkie for 1-10-0. It's Grim on the Grand Union FOURTEEN brave souls ventured to the Grand Union Canal at West Drayton hoping to find the roach took an interest but the bloodworm only found the odd perch, gudgeon and ruffe prepared to feed. Steve Longhurst and Tony Garner were at the Trout Road end of the venue and offered pole and bloodworm over joker to share the winner's platform with a mere 0-6-0, Bob Stone contributing 0-5-8. Fourth place was shared by reigning club champion David Cattermole, Lawrie Way and 9-year-old Robin Mahachi who all had 0-2-0. AGM News THERE will be a sensational announcement at this year's AGM which will mark a momentous point in the Society's history. Be there on Tuesday, February 24 where there will also be a meal and a celebrity guest or two. Watch this space! 2004/2005 Fixtures By popular request we are publishing some of the cracking fixtures for the new season (Summer League series in italics).
Wey Navigation Blues IT has been some years since we have fished a friendly competition against Woking DAA but it was nice to see one or two familiar faces from past encounters on Broadmead Cut. But the Wey Navigation was running coloured and was reluctant to give up its jewels easily, roach being the mainstay as chub were conspicious by their absence. WADAS netted to the top three places headed by Steve Longhurst who fished long pole and flouro pinkie for a mostly roach catch of 2-0-0. Tony Garner nursing an injury that prevented him carrying his gear (any old excuse!) did well from the top end of the venue where the wind was at its worst for 1-14-8 on double pinkie, Lawrie Way dipping his single red maggot in some pungent groundbait to attract 1-10-8. Bream or bust at Laleham IT came as no surprise that the going would be tough on the Thames at Laleham on December 28, though Mark Merrett had the luxury of losing two fish and getting away with it. The one he did land on the groundbait feeder gave him a 4-11-0 victory ahead of Dreek Vincent's 3-7-8 fish and David C King's 2-5-0. Steve Longhurst's 0-11-0 specimen dace on the pole gave him fourth spot. Don Boutell wins the Goodwin Cup VETERAN Don Boutell doesn't often feature in the frame but he made it a Christmas to remember on a tough match fished at Osprey Lake on Woodpecker Fishery near Copthorne. Drawn at peg 11, waggler and maggot saw him catch well in the final hour with small tench dominating his 7-15-0 net. Tony Garner had a 2.5 lb caught late on in the match for boosting his catch to 7-13-0 from peg 5, most of his fish falling to red maggot. Secretary Dave Harper completed the frame with 6-6-0 of mainly tench and skimmers plus a stray chub using pole and chopped worm over chopped worm and casters. Great turnout for Peter Norris Christmas Cup
Robert "Silverstone" Taylor was waylaid by illness otherwise it would have been eight. The four who couldn't make it, well perhaps next time as every one had a prize. Favourite Bradley Garner drew noted peg 4 but was on the rack as Oliver Bowen in only his second contest landed three carp early on the feeder and maggot. But the Coulsdon starlet bounced back using a feeder and dead red maggot to land five carp for 10-1-0, Oliver settling for second with three carp for 7-13-8. Jonathan Egginton on the steps, peg 11 also had three carp for 5-8-0 and Michael Duff' trio from peg 12 went 5-1-0. FRAMFIELD BLUES WITH sparkling midweek match weights at Framfield’s Spring Lake, Warlingham DAS were expecting great things to happen on Sunday, especially after a beautiful Saturday with near summer temperatures.
And there were other good weights as Phil King landed 14 carp on feeder and maggot or corn for 47-8-0, though he was a tad unlucky to miss out on a 15th on the toss of a coin! Ray Fleming had also hooked the same fish in the mouth and the sporting pair came to a gentleman's agreement and Ray called correctly. Brian Beacroft had an eventful match landing two carp for 23-6-0 but losing several other fish he didn't see whilst Bob Stone included a 9-9-0 grass carp and a 1-8-0 barbel in his 25-14-0 net. Croydon Postal also fully contributed to an enthralling match with Alec Rosiak landing a 3-8-0 barbel and Dave Johnson a 1-15-0 eel, theoir top rod Dave Sharp landing 39-14-0. Bob Clark sacked! Membership Services Manager of the National Federation of Anglers, Bob Clark has had his employment terminated by mutual agreement. A press release stated: An NFA Disciplinary Committee and Bob Clark the Membership Services Manager (MSM) have met today, Thursday, 25 September 2003, to discuss all aspects relating to the MSM's recent suspension. Having considered the MSM's explanation and due to irreconcilable differences, it was mutually agreed that Bob Clark should leave his post as Membership Services Manager with immediate effect. All parties have agreed that the matter would remain confidential. The NFA would like to place on record their recognition and thanks for all the good work that Bob Clark has completed during his time in office and wish him well for the future. The NFA Executive is committed to continuing to take angling forward as a modern, efficient sport. What happened previously:
Steve nets Robert Raines Memorial Trophy ON his first competitive visit to Charts Plain, Steve Longhurst took top honours on this annual Bank Holiday fixture to land the Robert Raines Memorial Trophy. Drawn at peg 4, pole and corn over Swim Stim saw him land 10 carp, mainly in the morning, for 35-4-0. Club Treasurer Keith Francis used legered crust at peg 12 for 27-3-0 of carp, his best going 8-6-0, Scott Denton coming third with 25-12-8 from peg 3. Steve takes the match at Sam's Lake STEVE Longhurst won his second Points/Weights match on the trot at Sam's Lake on August 17. Pole and maggot gave him 30-9-0 of carp to 6.5 lb. Teenager Bradley Garner was second with 22-5-0 of fish caught close in, Peter Ralston coming third with 14-6-0. Hawkhurst ton for Steve A Clubman cap is on the way to Steve Longhurst after he plundered a magic ton from Hawkhurst Fish Farm on August 3. Drawn at peg 19, he landed 100-9-8 of carp on pole and various baits to beat Steve Allen who managed 76-9-8 and Eddie Derrick on 56-14-8. Lake John throws up plenty of jewels The inaugaral visit to Lake John proved to be a great success with many good fish lost and some nice ones landed including Whacker's 2-14-0 crucian, Dave Harper's 0-14-0 roach plus good tench to 3-12-0. Best on the day was Jason Courtney from peg 10 where groundbait feeder and double maggot gave him three tench plus skimmer bream for 42-11-8, though he lost an enormous carp. Bob Stone also lost a good fish at peg 35 but he fished similar tactics for 38-4-0, Steve Longhurst at peg 29 finding out too late that the fish were at seven metres as he pole fished for 30-13-0 of roach, skimmer bream and tench.
Open Day Success THE first ever WADAS open day staged at Charts Plain, Copthorne proved to be a great success with lasped anglers and new people visiting the fishery. But an unfortunate acident on the M25 near Godstone threw an unwanted spanner in the works with some NFA coaches being delayed by over 2 hours and the boys from Wickford Angling enduring a nightmare journey. With Keith Arthur of Talksport Radio giving the event a welcome plug, the event proved far more successful than a similar event run by another organisation. So successful was the open day that it is hoped it will be come an annual event WADAS lads see help Croydon to the gold medal in the Youth Games Final New member Robert Taylor (16) put in a commanding performance at Brook Lake, Stapleford Abbots to propel Croydon through the London Youth Games Final and he repeated his win in the final at Crystal Palace on July 13.
He fished pole and floating dog biscuit at peg 17 to land two carp for 20 lb plus bits for 26-5-0 and individual victory, though a bream and a carp were lost. Jake Marshall included a massive 17-7-0 carp in his fourth placed net of 19-0-0 (we are still trying to get him to join!) and Bradley Garner was among the bream again landing three plus two roach for 9-4-0 to give the team 54-9-0, well ahead of Enfield who were on 43-12-0. This gave Croydon their first individual double since Richard Taylor in 1993 and the first team gold for Croydon since 1994.
Les West Cup Round 6 (July 16) MARK Merrett took top honours in this final round with a fine performance from peg 6 where he fished close in with pole, pellet and maggot to land 28-15-0 of carp. But it was not enough as he could only tie on points with Phil King and David Adby allowing Phil King to lift the cup on weight countback. Final Scores:
** After discarding worst score ¥ = silver fish only match ¶ = waggler and maggot match Oakford Farm This venue is the same distance from Croydon as Ashford or Wylands Farm being the other side of Chelmsford but it seems unlikely this will be booked which is a shame as it is a good 22 peg or so venue. In an open match run by Dartford Angling last week, winner John Coster landed in six hours, 385 lb 8 oz. Sixth place was 128-0-0. Maybe this venue as opposed to Rolf's in Oxfordshire, Pitlands in Kent or Drayton Reservoir could produce the next British match record? Bough Beech Result Only a few turned up to Bough Beech Reservoir on Sunday for the second round of the new Summer League which was a shame as the roach and skimmer bream were quite obliging. David Cattermole was drawn on the grass bank and fished waggler and maggot to land 31-7-0 of roach and skimmer bream to beat joint seconds Dreek Vincent and MArk Merrett who managed 15-7-0 each. Longmoor Farm booked for 27 June 2004 Following a visit to this venue near Finchampstead by secretary Dave Harper, competition secretary Lawrie Way acted swiftly and agreed to book the venue for next season's venue list. And the venue is certainly one to excited about with a disabled angler, Peter Court of Windsor, at peg 14 landing an estimated 50 lb of small tench and carp using pole and pellet, alternating with bread, sweetcorn, meat and bread. Garry Musgrove (who swears he will join WADAS when he has sorted his picture out) fished mainly waggler and corn at peg 12 also had a good day but also found breadflake was eagerly snaffled up by carp or tench. "This could be one of the best fixtures of the 2004/05 season as the large fish were not feeding on our visit and we did not fish to the island, even so it was a bite a cast" said Dave Harper. Slow start to Les West (June 11) SECRETARY Dave Harper made up a lot of ground in the final half hour landing five carp close in on peg 14 using pole and pellet to add to two small fish taken on the waggler earlier for 10-2-0. He beat Brian Beacroft who lost a good fish late on at peg 11 on the steps and so had to settle for second spot with 8-15-0 just ahead of David Adby's four carp plus bits on the waggler for 8-13-0. CHARTS PLAIN ON FIRE! Not literally thank goodness but reports are pouring in of fantastic catches in the opening days of the new season. Andy Failes fished peg 3 with dog biscuits on Sunday, June 1 and landed over 30 fish between 6 and 8 lb. It was so hectic on his first visit that he didn't have time to walk around the whole lake! Jim Gower was also busy landing 109 lb of carp, his best catch from the venue, on floating crust whilst Society treasurer Keith Francis told Tuesday's Committee meeting on his 26 carp on legered bread for 78 lb. Get there before they wise up! Key players identified Bob Clark, Membership Services Manager of the NFA took the photo below which identifies the key players within WADAS.
Left to right: Lawrie Way (Competition Secretary); Dave Harper (Secretary); Dennis Wride (Chairman), David Adby (Membership Secretary) and David Jupp King wins at Wylands - see Match pages Maver Matches selected Once again WADAS is entering the Maver Club Angler of the Year, David Cattermole finishing around 30th about a win short of the final score needed to qualify for the next stage. This year's matches will be as follows:
NFA Chief to present trophies Warlingham and DAS are proud to announce that the National Federation of Anglers' Membership Services Manager, Bob Clark is to present the club's trophies on Tuesday, 27 May at Woldingham Village Club "Bob Clark is at the forefront of what is happening in coarse fishing today, he has a hotline to the government that has never been experienced before. There is very little that he is not aware of in terms of funding coming angling's way, cormorant issues and political lobbying," said Dave Harper. "With due respect to other speakers, what Bob will be saying is key to the future of the sport, so whilst he is a very competent angler, it is a chance to talk about the non technical issues surrounding angling," he added. Proceedings start at 19.30 with a meal included - this is an event not to be missed. Grant applied for through Tandridge Council Warlingham DAS have applied for a small grant via the Small Grants Scheme run by the local council in order to part fund a colour laser printer. This would be used to further enhance the colour newsletters. provide promotional material as well as provide fact sheets and teaching materials for those less experienced in the club. A decision is expected by the end of the month. Working Parties proving to be a great success Charts Plain has been transformed thanks to the efforts of members on the March and April working parties with the footpath now going all the way up to new peg 17. Refurbishments have also taken place on many of the existing swims. Membership Secretary David Adby paid tribute to all the workers: "I am really pleased with the efforts of those members who have attended so far and hope we can produce similar results at our other fisheries." Biggest bream could be on the cards at Lake John BIG bream could be the target when WADAS visits Lake John later this year, Ken Farrell landing an 8 lb specimen in last week's open. Yesterday was Viscount Angling's John Dulieu opportunity to find quality fish (see pic below).
Cattermole clinches it on last match of season WILY David Cattermole finished his season on a high as he collected the Les Ball Cup on the River Medway at East Farleigh on March 9. An old style "walk off" gave him a peg on the weir pool and an early 2-15-0 bream on the feeder gave him a great start. With a facing wind and the automatic weir kicking in the fish was being battered against the bank and so David weighed in early before landing a second bream that boosted his score to 4-5-0. Mark Merrett also included a skimmer in his mainly roach bag of 3-7-8 also on the feeder, Tony Garner netting third with 1-10-0. Woodpeckers produces the goods The penultimate match of the season was at the Woodpecker Fishery near Crawley and provided some cracking sport led by Colin Jerrom who fished a 10 metre pole and maggot over Swim Stim for a single carp, crucians, tench, skimmer bream, perch, roach, rudd and gudgeon for 15-14-8. Opposite Colin Bateman fished similar tactics to an island where he also included chub in his mixed bag of 12-5-8, Tony Garner wating too much time on the feeder before pole fishing for 10-9-0 of moainly roach. Bill and Virginia Rushmer prove to be a great success AGM guests, Bill and Virginia Rushmer proved to be a huge success at the society's annual meeting held on Tuesday, 25 February. Their anecdotes relating to fishing from Thames skiffs to fishing at commercial waters such as Angler's Paradise and Whiteacres proved highly informative and amusing. Our sincere gratitude to them both. Club Champion Cattermole punches out the roach David Cattermole did well on the Basingstoke Canal at Heathvale Bridge on Sunday, 16 February to easily win what was basically a breadpunch match. Drawn halfway between the bridge and the flash, he fished at various distances catching roach to 10 oz throughout for 5-6-0. He was comfortably clear of Mark Merrett who was nearest the bridge and fished similar tactics for 3-1-0. Club secretary Dave Harper was at the Great Bottom Flash end of the venue and caught well for two hours including a bonus skimmer bream but the pegged died as the temperature dropped and he had to settle for third spot with 1-14-8.
Knife edge victory for guest Steve Longhurst at West Drayton The last couple of visits to the Grand Union Canal at West Drayton have always produced some nice fish but Sunday, 2 February was the exception with only small fish being taken to the scales. Only David Adby had a sniff of a bream and hour from the end when he pulled out of one. Former competition secretary Steve Longhurst, miffed at the team selection for the South Norwood side that faced Croydon Postal in the Angling Times club KO turned up and did the business landing just 0-4-0 of small roach and perch using pole and bloodworm. Tony Garner also tried pinkie on the hook for 0-3-8 of perch whilst Dave Harper tied with 0-3-8 of roach and perch taken on bloodworm. As Tony is unable to take the time off work, Dave will represent WADAS in the Angling Plus Clubman semi-final at Woodlands View, Thirsk in July. Colin Bateman put his fur & fluff tackle away for the day to clinch fourth spot with 0-3-0. Adby lands a specimen canal chub as Cattermole clinches the Points Championship The Wey Navigation at Pyrford was in typically uncompromising mood when the 14 anglers visited on Sunday, January 19. Steve Allen had his share of problems, only landing two of the five chub he hooked to finish second with 1-14-8. But Dave Adby waited until 45 minutes from time before hooking and landing a fine 4 lb chub on pole and maggot to win comfortably. Scott Denton was third with 1-6-8 of roach and perch, also on pole and maggot. Bradley comes so close to Christmas glory Teenager Bradley Garner nearly pulled off a sensational victory in the Christmas match at Chart's Plain. Drawn on the noted island, he fished pole and corn to lure nine carp for 36-4-8 but was thwarted by an excellent performance by Membership Secretary David Adby who opted to fish with feeder and maggot close in at the far end of the lake, his nine fish going 38-13-0. Jason Courtney was at the next peg and had four small carp for 7-2-8, also on feeder tactics, Bob Stone clinching fourth with 6-11-8.
WADAS slash the cost of angling for youngsters History was made at the December Meeting when the Committee agreed to waive the membership charge for all juniors under the age of 12 - in line with the licence requirements. Secretary Dave Harper commented: "This is to give a boost to junior angling at a time when various initiatives are taking place [to recruit new anglers] and we hope very much that once they are members they will stay with us for a very long time as we have a lot to offer." The revised policy takes effect from the season 2003/04 and applies to those aged 10 and 11, though children under 10 may join if they are accompanied by a responsible adult. Where have you been for 50 years? Membership secretary David Adby was pleased to hear from a man that joined the club as a teenager and has come back to us after 54 years. Sussex angler Mike Good re-discovered WADAS after a visit to Hunters Lodge Fishery which is near Chart's Plain and we are delighted to welcome him back. In a letter, Mike relates the time he went with the club by coach to the River Avon and under the guidence of the late Brian Kennedy and Harry Earnell did rather well - full story in the February newsletter. Next Season's Fixtures - a cracking set of matches coming up in 2003
Estonia call up for Dave? Secretary Dave Harper could be fishing in next year's World Championships if Estonia take up the invitation to help with coaching a side. He has an Estonian mother and therefore could be eligible. "Let's face it, I am never going to make the England Z team let alone fish with the likes of Gardener, Nudd and Raison and fishing for Wales is unlikely but you never know with Estonia", quipped NFA coach Dave. |
Chris goes Stur Crazy in Canada! Chris Dulley too time out from his job as MD of Dulley Ceilngs and Partitions to take a week's holiday in Canada. He visited Chilliwack on the Fraser River in British Columbia to land fish such as this 238 lb specimen. The creature, that was 7' 9" long was landed on 120 lb braid, 60 lb mono leader with a piece of salmon steak as bait!
Former NFA President and Rye & District match organiser David Bird passed away at 08.30 on August 18 after a battle with lung cancer. This was just hours before a planned "living wake".WADAS Chairman Dave Harper paid tribute to the long time agling administrator: "David Bird was without doubt the match organiser that inspired me to run matches. But for him, we would not have run open matches at all as the Committee at the time were not keen for us to do so. It was to him that I turned to for advice. He was a huge presence both locally and nationally and world is a sadder place without him." For more regarding David's cremation and a wall of tributes see: 
Robbie Taylor dishes out trophies and advice. Pictured from left to right: Craig Winchester, David Adby, Robbie Taylor and Steve Longhurst. Just hours after giving good advice on how to fish forthcoming venues, Robbie Taylor went to Gold Valley for the London & SE Super League and landed 220-10-0 of carp on the pellet waggler, just 5-2-0 behind the winner.
Lawrie Way was pleased to visit Redbridge Lakes, NE London on March 18 where he landed six species of fish including bream, roach, rudd, perch, crucian carp and tench. The water, run by Terrapins match ace Gordon Bullock is due to fully open this July. As you can see the stock is varied - Dave Harper also had chub - but brown goldfish, orfe and ide will be added to the mix soon. There will be a children's play area, cafe, shop and proper toilets. Lake Cuthbert and Daisy are both five foot deep with 30 and 34 pegs respectively. With a variety of aquatic and well as bank plants, a turf bank and well designed swims, this could be one of the prettiest and diverse fisheries in the Home Counties. More details at 
The last Hurrah? Alphonsus Duffylanded this lovely mirror carp from Charts Plain peg 13 on Saturday, March 6 using bread flake suspended midwater. Unfortunately, whilst the camera worked well, the scales didn't but the fish was estimated to be between 18 and 22 lb. "It was a real surpise and I was quite impressed," said Alphonsus. "My rod was nearly bent it two." But is it the same fish caught on fly back in September on the Purley Scouts event? 
Whilst 19 WADAS members struggled at a certain Surrey Lake on February 7, Mick Keeper caught the fish of a lifetime at Oxcopse Lake near Ashington in a competition run by Terry Molloy (whose camera phone picture is left). Mick from Guildford caught this monster 5 lb 2 oz perch, just 7 oz below the UK record on pole and single caster to a 20 hook and 0.08 line. The match was won by Molloy with 21-11-0 with England Daiwa Dorking's Steve Gardener second on 20-3-0
WADAS Members Dave Harper, Mick Cove, Lawrie Way, Ken & Tom Barnard, Mark Merrett, past member Mike MacDonald were joined by local matchmen Steve Nicholson, Robbie Taylor, Jake Marshall and carper Alan Hoare on Wednesday, February 3 by Angling Times editor Richard Lee and marketing manager Emma Bedford at the Sir Julian Huxley,Selsdon. Boss Richard Lee (pictured above explaininga point to Lawrie) revealed a number of initiatives to be launched in the paper at the end of March. Although the group have been asked to keep certain things confidential, the free monthly UK Carp supplement will undergo a refresh and a new free monthly Match supplement is to be launched. There will also be much more local news and a superb set of initiatives to promote angling as a sport and also help the Angling Trust. Dave Harper said: " I have done work for the AT for over 20 years and seen lots of improvements and other, let's just say disappointments, but the paper is currently very good. However the new ideas we saw on Wednesday evening were absolutely sensational".
Matchbox S Class box complete with footplate and side tray. Unwanted prize, still in box, worth £380.00, will accept £250 ono. Telephone Adrian on 020 8668 0417
FORMER secretary, chairman and life member Richard Dodds passed away on October 15, aged just 58, following a short illness. Dickie was a stalwart and active member of the club before he moved to his home at Cross Keys, Hereford. The last three years were a real challenge following a disasterous episode in hospital that left him only able to stand for short periods and ruled out coarse fishing. But he loved going after trout on the Usk and Wye and its tributaries and local stillwaters. Dickie first had contact with WADAS in 1979 when we ran an open on the Wey Navigation and he represented Top Ten MG. Later when he moved into the area, he joined WADAS and represented us in the Surrey Winter League as well winning numerous club trophies including the weights cup in the early 80s. Dick also visited Ireland and Holland on as well as Devon on angling holidays, the latter being fly fishing for trout. He was always a jovial character with an infectious laugh and good company. But as his health declined, he was prone to blood infections, much pain and when he contracted septaceamia in mid October passed away two days later. Dickie has been buried at his local cemetry with Trout and Salmon magazine, waitcoat and hat in the coffin, getting a good send off at the local pub where he enjoyed not only the cider but the local ales. Jason Courtney led the tributes: "I learned a lot from Dickie, a lovely man and a good angler". He leaves his widow Lynne who intends to auction off his fishing tackle and pass monies to the Wye and Usk Foundation.
Top book to read Keith Arthur is the angling voice of national radio through his TalkSport Radio programme “Fisherman’s Blues” and Sky TV weekly show Tight Lines and has been for many years. In addition he has a pithy and outspoken column every week in Angling Times. Now he has authored his first book “Fishing – The best excuse for loafing in the countryside…” published by Green Umbrella at £14.99.
Is this the lagrest fish in Charts Plain? That is the question after Dawn Elliott lost a huge fish in the Roberts Raines Memorial. But the 8th Purley Scouts had more success on September 5- with the help of Angling Trust Senior Coach, Alan Sandom. Spotting feeding carp, chum mixers further encouraged the fish and a fly rod with home tied deer fur to imitate a biscuit fooled this superb 14-14-0 mirror carp played out by 12-year-old Daniel Worrel.
Playing the monster at peg 9 - here's why we do it: Hi Dave just a note of thanks to you and the team of instructors that volunteered to help make a fantastic day of fishing i hope they got as much out of it as my scouts did, for the scouts yesterday will have made memories that they will carry on through there scouting time and beyond, we see it all the time with them as a group they might not say much about what they have done dut one night sitting around a campfire talking< say in 18 months time some one will say do you remember? and they will be able to talk back through the day as if it was yesterday, Pip lossing your rod, Mat, Abby and there giant carp? Alex and the top of your rod, Josh haveing me climb a tree to free his line, Danny Hanna and Beth for there first ever fish Joel,Adam who took it there stride,Tom who got into the carp and of course you haveing to row out to get your rod back, was it the fact of you haveing to row out or that the boat was taking in water>> again thank you for the day, if possible can you pass this on to the rest of your team - Brian Lamont (8th Purley Scouts).
Scout Alex Jones (13) with a nice carp taken on pole and corn close in at peg 12
Philippa Blyth (11) might be soon back on the bank after landing this carp on pole and paste
Dave lost at Sea? It might look grotty weather (it was!) but this little flattie plus tiny bass were caught by chairman Dave Harper on a recent trip to Grays Promenade to fish the Thames estuary. Using a pike rod and three ounce grip lead with lugworm on the hook, the fish were taken on an incoming neap tide. The catch, though modest attracted interest from other members including D C King and Mick Cove, though Mick is well known for going on talkSport Radio as Mick from Gatwick to discuss marine matters! If anyone is interested in a Saturday trip on August 22, let Dave Harper know. Beware any catches will not count in the weights and points trophies!
There are over 60 anglers booked in to take part in this year's Lower Thames Championships to be staged between Laleham and Molesey on September 19. Our sponsors are Drywall Ceilings and Partitions (formerlly Dulley Ceilings and Partitions) and they have ploughed in £3,000 cash into the event that last year produced a remarkable weight for Mick Hanks. Not Surprisingly, he was an early entry! Volunteers are still needed to ensure the event is properly managed and stewarded. Please contact Dave Harper on 07956 163414 if you can assist. 
Janice Haves is to be the guest entertainer at the Robert Raines Memorial BBQ on Monday August 31. Janice last performed for WADAS in 2007 and we are very pleased to see her return giving us two hours of live music.
A duck and a carp share an intimate moment(?). Still there was no shortage of big fish hanging around the boathouse at Old Bury Hill Fisheries.
David Adby holds one of the larger perch being stocked at Peg 3. Plenty of fish were showing earlier in the day, especially in the rushes at Peg 1. David was extremely pleased earlier with a good working party at Ladycross Farm that established five pegs.
Martin Moore of Moore & Moore Carp releases 20 lb of perch to 1.5 lb and 200 skimmer bream into Charts Plain on March 22.
Charts Plain had a dressing of Siltex on January 31 to help break down silt and release nutrients into the water and generally improve the lot of our fish stocks. Thanks are due to David Adby and his son Steven, Dave Harper, Jason Courtney and Richard Hoy for assisting Ken Crow and his colleague Andy in loading the boat in order for the chalk to be dispersed throughout the lake.
MARK Lloyd addressed the EGM of the National Federation of Anglers when they agreed to end 105 years of being by merging with others to form the Angling Trust. Mark explained that the new organisation would mean providing betters services for anglers including a "Fish 4 Free" scheme.
NFA Environment Director Roy Rettalick announced to the EGM that the European Parliament voted on Thursday, 4 December to remove the Cormorant off the protected list with 583 votes for, 17 abstentions and just 7 against. "Each member country will have now draw up a management plan in order to control cormorants and other species that have been removed from the list," explained Roy
In this week's Croydon Advertiser, one lucky reader will win a copy of John Wilson’s updated autobiography by answering a simple question. The 400 page volume covers his early days through to Spring this year and is liberally sprinkled with many of his own pictures.
The National Federation of Anglers would like to announce the departure of current Chief Executive, Paul Baggaley who will be leaving the NFA on the 14th November 2008.
Tony Garner picture as requested by his grandchilden! This picture was taken at Frant Lakes.
MARK Merrett landed carp No 5 at 13.30 from unfancied peg 21 in the Robert Raines Memorial at Charts Plain fished on August 25. Dawn Elliott fishing her first competition has been drawn on peg 7, the same swim her son Joe finished third in on Saturday. But she could only one small carp and a few silver fish for just over a pound. Mark was able to land 17-1-8 consisting of five carp, three on paste, two on bread for victory beating 19 others. Dave C King contributed 14-12-8 from the left hand bank followed by Mick Biles with 14-9-8 from the island. Steve Longhurst landed the best perch in five years at 2-4-0. After the match the traditional BBQ was held with superb entertainment provided by Soul Business (pictured above), the rain fortunately holding off
Is this Mr Angry Angler? Answers on a postcard to the usual address please.
AS part of National Fishing Week, we held our Open Day on Saturday, 26 July at Charts Plain Fishery. Apart from NFA coaches offering free tuition, NFW and the Environment Agency provided plenty of welcome packs for newcomers. On a very hot day, everyone caught something with perch, roach, rudd and gudgeonbeing common plus the occasional carp. Keith attracted a number of people, including some curious club members, and enthused about his day on his Fisherman's Blue show the following day. It was a truly marvelous event and we hope to have gained several newcomers to the sport. 
AN historic agreement has been reached that will see more than £500,000 being paid by Thames Water to restore and improve the River Wandle over the next five years.This follows the devastating pollution incident on September 17 that saw thousands of fish killed and a significant impact on invertebrate and plant life in the river. Thames Water admitted responsibility for the incident within days and has apologised unreservedly to the local community and angling clubs. 
Julia Raines with Ben and Louise enjoying the occasion
TEN-year-old Joe Elliott proudly shows off his Daiwa Aqualite Match Rod that he won on Saturday, August 11 after fishing a one hour sprint match using whip and maggot. The rod was donated by Martin Greene of Daiwa Sports and we are grateful to him for a super prize that is going to a lad that is at the start of a promising angling career.
JANIS Haves will be the muscial entertainment on Monday, August 27 for the Robert Raines Memorial Trophy BBQ. Invitations were sent out with the August newsletter. Janis is an established artist and her repertoire includes her own material as well as standard such as American Pie, Every Breath You Take and Why Does It Always Rain On Me. With games, plenty of food there is something for everyone.
THE VETERANS match on July 6 attracted a good field from as far away as North Yorkshire and Bristol and it was those who travelled the furthest who did the best with John and Maureen Collier taking the top weights using pole and maggot, though they got a shock when asked to pay southern prices as they get up north for only a £1 a pint!
And with Judds youngster Neil McBernie putting aside his hangover also, two late carp sealed Paul Oliver into last in section. Judds went on to win with 13 points with New Addington on 12 and Warlingham on 11. But for the final 40 minutes the Warlingham side would have won, with the lowest weight of the three sides. Mal Thompson on the private bank won over all with 14 carp on pole and pellet over hemp for 42-1-8 followed by Barry Bracegirdle from peg 7 with nine carp on legered corn for 27-6-0 and fellow New Addington star Andy Hartigan with 24-15-8 from peg 11. 
With Judds of Hillingdon and New Addington MG both having practised at Charts Plain, few can predict who will make it to the next round but Sunday February 11 will certainly be a stern test. The fish are currently shoaled in the middle and Roy Hayward drew peg 12 on Sunday, February 4, the same peg that threw up 20 carp for New Addington's Barry Bracegirdle a week earlier. The picture left is from the previous week when he fished peg 7
KINGFISHER pupil, Thomas Windram landed this 18 lb beauty whilst fishing for bream on the Kennet and
Friday, August 4 saw the 2006 Old Boys Reunion. Standing from left to right are Larie Way, Don Boutell, Alan Gristwood, Mike Tompson, Mike Stevens and Len Tutt. Seated are David Adby who laid on a superb spread, Peter Norris and Cecil Pocock. A fun contest was arranged in aid of DebRA being won by Dave Harper with 35-6-0 of carp from peg 3 followed by Lawrie Way with 24-4-0 from peg 11 and Len Tutt with 10-4-0 from peg 8.
This is 11-year-old Tianna from Shirley who visited Charts Plain on July 30 to try angling. And apart from catching this superb carp, she was very good at unhooking fish. We are hoping that both Tianna and her brother Kieran will take up the sport and join WADAS.
Andrew Pelling, MP for Croydon Central was the guest of honour at our Open Day on July 22 along with over 25 other visitors. On 4 August, he wrote: "Thank you very much for sending me the WADAS news. I think that you write an excellent newsletter. Lucy and I very much enjoyed the open day. It was really good work that you are doing promoting angling for young people. I was grateful too for the laminated pictures that you sent and will hang those up in the office here in Parliament. Do you happen to have those two pictures available in electronic form for us to have?"
THIS superb roach was caught by 11-year-old Laura Windram from peg 2 at Charts Plain on Saturday, 24 June. Inevitably the carp showed up later in the day and she landed fish to over 5 lb and enjoyed her best ever day's fishing. The NFA coaches were Dave Harper and Kevin Pestell and were assisted by Dinford Lewis and Nigel Duff. Committee members David Adby and Mick Cove were also on hand. Laura's seven year-old brother Thomas Windram also had a brilliant day with Dinford Lewis (pic below) helping him to land the carp below. Thomas was so pleased he even rang in to Talksport's Keith Arthur on the Sunday morning to say how brilliant the event had been. The next Kingfisher Day is on Saturday, July 8.
Tapfuma "Robin" Mahachi (pictured left at Mill Pond, Stubpond) helped the London Borough of Croydon to victory in the qualifying round held at Horseshoe Lake, Tylers Common. With eyes streaming from the nearby long grass and ammonia from the maggots, he bravely stayed at his peg (well most of the time!) to land 6-12-0 of small roach and perch as instructed. Team mates Paul Jones contributed 25-1-0 with Ross Marshall putting 17-14-0 on the scales, Croydon won with 49-11-0 on what was really a reserve side! Now the squad go to Crystal Palace Private Pond on July 9 for the final.
NFA Chairman Terry Fell JP presents David Adby with the Clubmark award on Saturday, May 13 2006. (Pic courtesy of Tom Goldspink, NFA staff)
WADAS Chairman had a proud moment on Monday March 6 when he collected from Croydon Mayor Maggie Mansell a Long Service to Sport Award in recognition of over 40 years service. During that time, the 72-year-old has served as Junior Rep, Competition Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Chairman. He is a life Vice President and has also served TAPS, CALPAC and ACDAC. A well deserved award for all the hard work he has put in over the years and continues to do so. 
Anti-Anglers get a big raspberry from readers of the Independent on Sunday
SELF-CONFESSED angling apprentice, Bob Le-Ray of Hampton Court has finally completed the final step in joining WADAS by forwarding his passport photos for processing his application. Seriously though, Bob is a star of Fisherman's Blues and we are pleased that he has selected us as his primary angling club. Bob is pictured left with his best carp of a session with NFA coach Dave Harper last autumn
Keith Arthur (centre) displays Martyn Halsey's CD with the artist on the right and ACA director Mark Lloyd on the left at this year's Big One, Thorpe Park
Bob LeRay plays a big carp on single caster at peg 3
Action (or lack of it!) on the Basingstoke Canal. 
This nice perch caught by Robin Gaunt of Wraysbury helped him to an amazing 15-1-0 victory on the Wey Valley League fished the other side of the bridge from WADAS.
After a good first hour with pole and caster it was tough for Dave Harper with only the odd gudgeon and bleak to add to his roach and skimmers. But with 15 minutes left, this superb 2-3-0 perch boosted his total to 5-13-8. This pushed Mark Merrett into third spot with 5-6-0, one ounce ahead of Bob Stone.
Steve (left) beat Pete Crowhurst who opted for a swing tip and feeder for 31-0-0. David Adby was third with 23-11-0 with Steve Allen fourth on 20-14-8.
SEVEN juniors braved the cold to fish the Peter Norris Xmas Cup at Charts Plain which was sponsored by Biggin Hill Angling Centre (thanks to Pete and Wendy James for their generous support). 
WHAT a fabulous start to a fishing career as nine-year-old Tapfuma Mahachi fished Charts Plain on Saturday, 11 October landing 17 fish on whip and maggot including this carp. Just wait till he hooks his bait properly Bradley and you will have a serious challenge!
COMPETITION Secretary Lawrie Way netted this fine 2-12-0 perch on Sunday, September 28 at the Falkonville Fishery. This was landed on fine tackle and gave Lawrie his best stripey in over 50 years of angling.
BOB Clark was sensationally suspended as Membership Services Manager by the National Executive of the NFA on Tuesday 2 September following alleged financial irregularities. And his job hangs in the balance following revelations that he used the NFA credit card for personal purchases and omitted to repay these before an internal audit discovered the discrepancies. Bob has provided plenty of support to Warlingham & DAS and we hope that he may continue to do so despite what appears to have been a serious lack of judgement. 
Here Brian "Whacker" Wales shows off his fabulous 2-14-0 crucian carp
What a whopper! Jake Marshall with his amazing 17-7-0 carp taken on pole and floating dog biscuit Picture: Allan Billington
The winning Croydon side - left to right: Adrian Marshall (senior coach); Jake Marshall, Robert Taylor and Bradley Garner. Picture: Allan Billington
David Cattermole pictured at Furze Farm in November.
This was one of the nine carp Bradley Garner landed to earn himself the Peter Norris Cup
