Golden opportunity to reel in cash

14/06/2006

Anglers from across the country are being lured to take part in a competition to reel in money for charity while having a golden chance to catch more than fish.

‘The Big Fish 2006’ will be hosted by Northumbrian Water on Saturday, June 17 at the North East’s premier fishery, Derwent Reservoir, in County Durham.  The fisherman who catches the golden trout, specially stocked for this competition, will win £1,000!

All money raised by ‘The Big Fish 2006’ will go to Macmillan Cancer Support – a charity that supports people and families who have to cope with cancer.  The charity makes a huge difference to peoples’ lives every day.

Don Coe, Northumbrian Water’s Leisure Operations Manager, said:  “We are delighted to be hosting this event at Derwent Reservoir.  Macmillan Cancer Support is a hugely worthwhile charity.  The more anglers that take part in ‘The Big Fish 2006’ the more money we can give to people who really need it – anglers need to raise a minimum of £70 sponsorship to be eligible for the £1,000 prize.  The golden trout will hopefully net lots of interest!

”Other prizes will include a trophy and £40 tackle voucher for the biggest fish caught, a trophy and a £20 tackle voucher for the heaviest combined weight and a trophy for the person who raises the most sponsorship.”

Julie, a young lady who is very grateful for Macmillan, said:  “When my Dad was diagnosed with cancer I went with him for a hospital appointment.  Mum wasn’t coping very well and Dad was having panic attacks too.  That is when I realised how ill and scared he was - he really needed support and Macmillan were there for all of us.”

One well known angler lending his support to the event is Jack Charlton:  “On Saturday people throughout the country will be well into the World Cup – but I think more people should give fishing a try.  I’ve been a keen fisherman for years and love nothing more than casting a line and hoping for success.  Being able to do this while raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support sounds like a perfect combination to me.”

Jo-Ann Evans, Fundraising Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support in Northumberland, said:  “This event will not only raise vital funds but also raise awareness of Macmillan’s much needed work.”

For further information please contact Jo-Ann Evans, Macmillan Cancer Support, on 01670 856510 or Cara Hall, Northumbrian Water, on 0191 301 6720.

About Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support.  Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three of us will get cancer. 1.2 million of us are living with it. If you are affected by cancer Macmillan can help.
For more information visit www.macmillan.org.uk or freephone 0800 500 800 for an information pack.