HI ingy,
Just a quickie on your enquiry.I live 5mins away from Foston on the upper river.I have spoken to a good number of people regarding the Barbel in the river and I am aware of a few large fish present on the Grantam water.Not had one yet,you reap what you sow as they say.Stacks of chub though.My visits are very sparse.Give it a go.