FORCE CASTS NET FOR YOUNG ANGLERS

YOUNG fishing fans have the chance to "Get hooked on fishing, not drugs or
crime" with the launch of West Yorkshire Police's annual Force Fishing
Competition.

The nationally-recognised competition, which was launched by Force Photographer
David Speight eleven years ago, last year attracted entrants from across the
country. Entry forms for this year's event were being sent out this week, and
organisers are hoping for a flood of entries this year.

Mr Speight said: "I have been a keen fisherman for many years and began the
competition to encourage youngsters to devote some of their time to something
constructive and enjoyable. Fishing gives them a healthy and interesting
activity to focus on, particularly during the summer break, rather than be
tempted by others into carrying out criminal or anti-social activities.

"The event brings together youngsters from across West Yorkshire and further
afield for what has developed over the years into a great family day out. People
are very welcome to come along to support and cheer on their children. It's
becoming more and more popular each year, which I'm delighted about."

This year's event takes place on Saturday, August 7 along the Calder Hebble
Navigation Canal on Horbury Way in Wakefield. All previous entrants will
automatically receive a form in the post. Wakefield Angling Club has kindly
donated the venue, which is the top lock above the Navigation pub beyond Horbury
Bridge. Entry

Mr Speight added: "There are just 180 'pegs' or places available, so make sure
you send off for your application form soon. The categories are under 18s and
under 15s with some fantastic prizes up for grabs. Last year's top winners in
each category received fishing poles worth about £500. There are also other
prizes on offer for everyone, with the peg draw raffle drawn after the trophy
presentation."

Mr Speight is keen to hear from anyone who would like to sponsor the event and
those youngsters wishing to take part can contact Anne Shaw in the Force's
Community Safety Department for an application form on 01924 292245. Successful
applicants will receive a confirmation card through the post to say they have
been accepted. The entry fee of £2, which will be donated to the Martin House
Children's Hospice at Boston Spa, is payable on the day.

The competition features five sections for under-18s and ten for under-15s, with
12 people in each section. There is a special trophy and prize for the under-8s.

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a new way of getting press releases!

What they're on about is good stuff however I'm not sure that it will get read posted here?

Lots of devious young would be criminals on AN Phil! Now, if they upped the age limit then they would find a few suitable candidates on AN!