We have established a memorial for past members who have contributed to the running and improvement of our game fisheries.

Some years ago, Martin James (who had a programme on Radio Lancashire called ‘At the Waters Edge’, donated some monies to the Association for the benefit of the environment. Along with some bird boxes, the Association planted a small copse, enclosed it and added a bench for relaxing and eating lunch.

The copse if situated in the right hand bank about halfway between Inghey Bridge and the top of the beat on the Broughton/Gargrave beat on the R. Aire. Fly fishing members will have seen the copse and bench many times, but few know the origin of it.

The Fly Fishing Sub-committee decided to use this copse to establish a memorial for members who have contributed significantly to the running and improvement of our game fisheries. This is now known as the Martin James Memorial Copse.

The fencing was improved and today a memorial board was erected with plaques for two members who have recently passed away – Arthur Padgett and Francis Dine.

Arthur was the Fly Secretary for 24 years and Francis was very prominent as a Sub-committee member and avid supporter of working parties to improve the fishery.

Members, fishing the beat, will easily recognise the Memorial and can pay respect if they wish.

Philip Bailey – Fly Secretary