Group that matches children with veteran anglers finds a permanent home in Wickham
“We have ambitious plans for the site,” the group’s founder said.
An organisation that teaches children with special educational needs the basics of fishing has found a permanent home.
Angling Mentors has taken over the management of Chiphall Trout Fishery, with plans to turn the site into a community resource supporting wellbeing, education and environmental conservation.
The organisation, founded by Shane Davies, says it wants to make the benefits of angling and spending time outdoors accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Fly fishing will remain at the heart of the fishery, but the plans also include opportunities for alternative education, social care support, youth mentoring and community wellbeing initiatives.
Shane, from Gosport, said: “I am delighted to share that Angling Mentors has a new home. After a great deal of hard work, careful planning, and dedication, we have officially taken over the management of Chiphall Trout Fishery.
“We have ambitious plans for the site that will create opportunities for members of the local community to discover the many wellbeing and mental health benefits that angling can provide.”
He said work was under way to put the necessary policies, procedures and safeguarding arrangements in place before the wider programme of activities is introduced.
Environmental awareness and conservation will also be central to the project, with visitors encouraged to learn about local wildlife, aquatic ecosystems and the importance of protecting rivers, lakes and the countryside.
Shane said the aim was to create a welcoming rural setting where people could learn new skills, build confidence and connect with nature and their local community.
He added: “We want Chiphall to become a place where people can escape the pressures of everyday life, enjoy the outdoors, and develop a lasting appreciation for the environment around them.”
Angling Mentors is now seeking support from individuals, businesses, community groups and other organisations to help develop the site.
Opportunities to get involved include sponsorship, donations, volunteering and practical assistance.
Shane added that the project marked an exciting new chapter for the organisation and called on the community to help create a resource promoting wellbeing, education, conservation and a lifelong interest in angling.