An ex-Army serviceman has organised a charity fishing match in Essex to raise money for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-Service men and women.
Holdfast Training Services Ltd, who provide training support for the Corps of Royal Engineers, is hosting its fifth annual ‘Carpers for Veterans’ fishing event at Oak Lakes Fisheries in Southminster between 20 and 22 September.
A mix of anglers, veterans, serving members of the Armed Services and civilians, have signed up to take part in the 48-hour competition which will see them fighting it out to catch the five biggest carp.
As well as the bid to be crowned top angler, there will also be an opportunity to hook a great prize in the weekend’s raffle and auction which local businesses have donated generously towards.
In the first four years that the competition has been running, it has raised over £14,000 for Blind Veterans UK.
Organiser Mark Jobling said:
“I served in the British Army for 30 years. I’m fortunate that I still have my health, but some people are not so lucky. Since leaving the services, I have become passionate about giving back. I feel immensely proud to be able to do something to help those who have lost their sight whether that was during service or later in life.
“Every single one of the competitors feels that way too. It really is the highlight of their angling calendar; they return each year for the camaraderie.
“Carp angling is a passion for me. I’m able to raise money for a worthwhile charity while doing something I enjoy. I take huge satisfaction when the group of anglers turn up and are buzzing to get started.
“For some of the veterans that take part, this event is an opportunity to spend 48 hours alongside other people with a military background and that means a lot to them.”
Show your support and help the organisers raise as much money as possible for Blind Veterans UK: justgiving.com/page/mark-jobling
If you are part of a group that would like to find out how your special interest or hobby could be used to raise money for Blind Veterans UK, please email fundraising@blindveterans.org.uk
Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans across the country, but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.
If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss, then please get in touch. Call 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/support
