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Last night I attended perhaps the best on line WRAGS meeting for some years, mainly because we had 2 guests Peter Morgan Angling Trust and Jonathon Brookes MMO. Sarah Birchenough spoke in more detail than ever, (I wonder why?) about their guidelines, statutory obligations and framework they work to. Sarah had prepared and read out a pre written lengthy script very quickly, it went in one ear and out the other for most attending. I got the clear thought then, it is not what she says, it's what she did not say, particularly when she knows who she is addressing and what our concerns are. In my mind I had a new respect for how well she has managed us over the years, a very clever lady. I did ask for a copy of the script that was read out and immediately the reply was I will forward a summary, why when it is written down in front of you I wondered. Our concerns are not being addressed because they do not fit the SIFCA remit, I have said this before but for some reason it was much clearer. Not just my interpretation, they actually have never outrightly said we can't help you. I believe they should have been clearer and then we could have saved years of attendance and discussions in what we believe is our meeting, but in fact it is theirs Chaired by CH. It is their way of full filling their requirements by Government to talk to local clubs and what better way, consulting with us and discussing codes which have no impact on the results. They stand as judge and jury, particularly clear with the Black Bream code. Yes, they needed practical help and why not carry on the charade that we are working together, working together would be more genuine transparency, a copy of their observations from our meetings and our concerns sent to Defra on our behalf with us copied in, that would suggest we are working together. I do not believe that has ever left their office. We need to grow more teeth, we are a push over, probably I am their biggest adversary and out right pain in the neck, but I am easily swept aside. Hence my path has been much wider than the SIFCA and may be I will get some traction, however it is a part time job.

Great post Mal. I think that getting things straight in our mind is important as there are so many problems and so many agencies that it is hard to see the wood for the trees. One question - what is WRAGS? I assumed it might be something like Wessex Recreational Anglers Group but when I googled it I found the Work And Retrain as a Gardener Scheme! Maybe that helps us see the wood in the trees 😂 Keep up the good work and yell if you want some more input. Cheers Max

There was a degree of whimsy in this. Terry.

I would be happy to take some old folks out, as long as there older than me! Perhaps a Veterans prize for the best fish if we get a few takers.

I can take one or two of the older ones. 😉 Terry.

Only older than you 😉😉😜😜 that ain’t going to work when you are probably the oldest old un in the club 😂😂😂😂😂

RASG -Recreational Angling Sector Group. Keep up the good work. Allan.

Will have a chat to potential crew About that first weekend in May

Guys and Gals, following last nights well supported and lively meeting, I was informed of some sad news from one of our long standing members, their support and his attendance record at meetings is outstanding. His wife Elizabeth passed away during our break and we send our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Sole Hunter John and his family. I knew his wife well and her longstanding illness was a very challenging time for all of the family. That did not stop her attending BBQS and the odd meeting between times of suffering. Rest in peace Elizabeth. John was a long time carer and expressed a wish to get back to fishing, his passion. He has a place on my boat whenever we can match up. If you have a comfortable place on your boat trip for a long time member please invite John Dunster out.

After reading that Jerry I feel like a teenager, many thanks. Get well soon mate. All joking apart what c--p luck that is, hopefully some good news will come your way. 🤞