PAC Angling Development Officer: Eric Edwards
A qualified angling coach and winner of the prestigious 2012 President’s Shield, Eric has already inspired PAC with his commitment to encouraging young anglers. Eric will be looking at further ways to disseminate best practice to the Regional Associations; he said:
“Pike fishing is hard for a beginner. It is also dangerous. To make a difference it will take a lot of effort from the regions – some have already made a great start and if we can encourage others to do likewise we’ll soon have plenty of young people ready to join us.”
PAC is also undertaking a complete multi-media upgrade, including a new website, online quarterly magazine and mobile phone ‘Apps’ – a holistic package intended to be more appealing to youngsters.
New PAC President Dilip Sarkar said:
“It is vital that young people are introduced to pike fishing, because without a new generation of pike anglers who will look after Esox lucius when we’re gone? Angling is also a great way of enjoying the outdoors and occupying youngsters, so Eric has the Club’s full support in his new role.”
PAC National Fisheries Protection Officer: Mark Leathwood
Retired police officer and former PAC General Secretary Mark Leathwood has been appointed to this new role. Mark said:
“Fisheries protection has always been a particular interest, and a concern for me. Whilst still serving with Cheshire Police I had familiarized myself with, and used the relevant legislation to bring successful prosecutions against poachers. I also became involved in training angling club bailiffs in order to help them understand and use the law to help combat poaching and other illegal activities. I’m still involved in training and have a good working relationship locally with the Environment Agency, for whom I have recently delivered presentations at a number of seminars for fishery owners and club bailiffs in the North West. In my new PAC role I will be available to advise members on local issues – but stress that individual incidents must be reported to the police and EA.”
This is the first of several new initiatives, to be progressively announced throughout the year, indicating the new PAC Committee’s positive and pro-active stance on the emotive issues of poaching and fish theft.
For further information on the PAC check out their website
