Category: Forthcoming Events

Posted on2024

Here comes 2024!

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Dear Friends and Supporters of FFF

With the festive season a memory now and the weather around the UK still playing games making “what to wear” the big question of the day. Many including yours truly fell into the trap when seeing a little sunshine and temperatures climbing, I decided to wear shorts ending up with “blue knees syndrome” or getting absolutely soaked which is not a pretty sight. Hopefully we have passed through the bitterly cold spell and can look forward to a climb in temperature and a little less rain.

As I said in my Xmas post, 2023 was another great success for events thanks to your unstinting support especially with an outstanding fundraiser the renamed “The Perfect Cast” even though the weather turned foul.

THE PERFECT CAST

This special event will be held again at Meon Springs on Saturday 11th May so please book early via the Meon Springs booking page as it is a great day and an extremely popular event. 
Click here to book.

We have a number of other events (please see below) for members of HMAF scheduled for 2024 and the dates and venues will be posted once confirmed so please check the website regularly with your diaries to hand and come and join us.

Meon Springs Trout Fishery has proven to be a very popular venue with mentors and guests due to location and facilities for mentors and guests which is a most important factor when organising our events. We are most fortunate that all the fisheries we use lay out the “Welcome mat” and go to great lengths to accommodate our needs and many mentors have first hand knowledge of the venues which helps tremendously when fish are being finicky.

Dates for your diaries please.

  • April 17th @ Meon Springs.  

  • May 11th @ Meon Springs.

  • May 15th @ Meon Springs.

  • June 12th @ Meon Springs.


Juggling venues and catering availability is becoming a hobby of mine but here are the other dates confirmed with HMAF and we just await details on catering facilities before we can confirm the venue so your patience is genuinely appreciated.

Future dates.

  •  July 17th @ Meon Springs.

  • Sept 18th @ Meon Springs.

  • Oct 9th @ Meon Springs.


I for one cannot wait to get waterside again and I know many of you have already braved the elements to cast a fly or a maggot for the Grayling even if the wind that we have experienced leaves your fly in the tree or in my case in the back of my neck.

It all makes for an interesting outing so let me know when you can join us as soon as you can.

I would appreciate all comments and suggestions as to how we are doing at FFF.

Stay safe and well and we look forward to the pleasure of your company soon.

Screaming reels everyone.

Bill Howell

 

 
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Posted on2022

16th July 2022 – Annual Cast & Blast

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Again this year our annual Cast & Blast will be held at the beautiful Meon Springs Trout Fishery, in East Meon GU32 1HW.

It is one of our most popular fund raising days in the FFF calendar and has proven a giant draw for anglers and supporters of FFF throughout the UK.

The day has always been considered a fun filled day of fishing and clay pigeon shooting challenging everyone’s skills which has resulted in many surprises for participants aiming to take away superb prizes.

A superb lunch is served after weigh in the superb prizes are given with a large raffle and auction of numerous eclectic collectable, must have items to bid for.

To join us for a red letter day in your calendar simply call the fishery or go on the Meon Springs website, click on Other and Events and sign in.

All will receive a warm welcome with camaraderie and the chance to make new friends and catch up with those we all missed in the turbulent times giving added to the feeling of supporting a very worthy cause.

I look forward to the pleasure of your company at the waterside with tight lines and screaming reels.

Bill Howell Founder.
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Posted onForthcoming Events

Dec 1st FFF Annual Lunch – The Lunch of A Lifetime

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This year Fishing For Forces are privileged to have been invited to have our Annual Lunch at the Old College in The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This is a stunning venue steeped in military history set in beautiful grounds. The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) is where all officers in the British Army are trained to take on the responsibility of leading their soldiers.

During training, all officer cadets learn to live by the academy’s motto: ‘Serve to Lead’. Many other Nations throughout the world choose to send their personnel to RMAS for Officer training because it is recognised as a world-leading military training academy.

The day will begin with a 45-minute Tour under the guidance of RMAS historians of several stunning Special Rooms in Old College built in 1799 followed by an excellent Three course lunch with all the trimmings in The Indian Army Memorial Room that has to be seen to be appreciated for its history and splendour.  The maximum number of Guests for the Tour is 45 so early booking for the Tour is advisable.

Due to the size of IAMR only 90 places are available. Seats are £120.00 pounds each but I would like to offer you a large discount if you can cajole your friends to form a table of 10 for £1000.00. Please note a table of 10 is made up of 9 civilians and 1 member of HMAF as your 10th guest. The event is always well attended, and several tables are booked already so early booking is advised. We are pleased to say we are in our 11th year with 3000 plus wounded, serving and veterans having been taken for a therapeutic day at the waterside. There will be the usual Raffle of desirable items and an Auction of valuable items to suit all tastes.

Kindly signify your wish to attend to [email protected] by no later than November 15th. Upon placing your booking, you will receive your personal invitation card, a full agenda with instructions for collecting your Military passes on arrival and parking directions.

Please remember that all members of HMAF keep watch for us 24/7 against all adversity, so we can continue to enjoy our treasured way of life.

It would be a genuine pleasure to have your company and of course your sterling support. Be assured of a superb day.

My best regards and my sincere thanks in advance.

Bill Howell (Founder)

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Posted onForthcoming Events

June 19th  Three-Fly Challenge Fundraiser

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A couple of important Dates for Your Diary

June 19th  Three-Fly Challenge Fundraiser 
(Covid permitting)

One of WTT’s annual fundraisers and now in its eleventh year. A really great day among friends at Meon Springs in Hampshire, brilliantly organised by WTT volunteer, Neil Mundy and the excellent staff at the fishery. You will fish more-or-less competitively for some tremendous prizes, including a Sage rod and elegant trophies. A raffle and auction will be held at lunchtime.

Tickets cost £110 including breakfast, cooked lunch, a 4-fish ticket and flies, with all monies raised going into WTT’s Pasco James Project. Book your ticket online at www.meonsprings.com. If you booked and paid for last year’s cancelled event, your place is confirmed for this year. Further information from Neil Mundy: [email protected]  / 07964 379988. Closing date for entries is 15th June and the event will be confirmed at the start of May depending on the COVID circumstances.

 
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Posted onForthcoming Events

Fishing For Forces Annual Lunch 2019

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Fishing For Forces are privileged to be holding our annual lunch this year on Thursday November 14th at 12 Noon, at the home of the Blues and Royals. The HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MOUNTED REGIMENT Barracks, Hyde Park, Knightsbridge. SW7 1SE. Hosted by our Patron, The Lord Dear Kt.QPM.DL

As usual at this event there will be a superb three course lunch served in the WO’s and NCO’s Mess. This will be followed by a Raffle requiring a £20 note with your name on it to participate and this will be followed by a small number of superb items for auction to cater for all tastes whilst coffee is being served.

Seats are £120.00 per person but a Table of 10 is offered at £1000.00 (a perfect venue for those special clients). A table of 10 will consist of 9 civilians plus a table guest from HMAF.

A very special addition not to be missed.

Guests of FFF have been offered the rare opportunity to join a tour of the Historic in house Museum, Farriers and Saddlery within the barracks (at no extra cost). The tour commences at 11.00 sharp until 11.45 when the guests will then return to the parade ground and be permitted to watch from the gallery the dismounting of the troopers returning from duty at Buckingham Palace. 

The tour will be conducted by serving members of HCMR with a considerable knowledge of the history of HCMR.  Places for the tour are highly sought after and are limited to 60 guests only so booking is required at the earliest possible.

Dress code: 

Gents. Lounge suit / Smart casual with tie.

Ladies. They know best allowing for the weather.

FOR THE TOUR


Please report to the Ceremonial Gate in Hyde Park at 10.45 sharp with your invitation (Valid for Tour and Lunch). At the end of the tour guests will be escorted to the Mess for lunch.

For security a Photo ID is also required (passport / Driving licence).

FOR THE LUNCH


Please report to the Ceremonial Gate in Hyde Park at 12.00 Sharp with your invitation. For security a Photo ID is also required (passport / Driving Licence).

TRAVEL


P&D Parking is available in the park and local streets and Knightsbridge Underground is 6 Minutes walk. Your RSVP please asap as to date 6 tables have already been taken and we only have a maximum of 12 tables.

TO RESERVE


Kindly e mail your reservation to me at [email protected] (please check  for a confirmation reply by e mail from me). Please post your appropriate cheque made to Fishing For Forces in a plain envelope with a return address for your invitations.

Addressed to me;

Bill Howell. Flat C (Side Entrance). 69 Perham Road. London. W14 9SP. 

Once payment is confirmed your seat/s will be reserved and your invitation/s will be posted to you (please confirm receipt) or they can be collected upon arrival if more convenient.

It is imperative that you inform us of any special dietary requirements. 

My most sincere thanks for your support and I sincerely look forward to the pleasure of your company. 

Bill Howell. 

FFF Founder

To download a pdf printout/poster for this event – Click here
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Posted on2019

4th July 2019 – Broadlands Fishery, Romsey

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Date: Thursday 4th July 2019
Location: Broadlands Lakes Fishery, Hill Street, Southampton, SO40 2RX

On Thursday 4th July, Fishing for Forces and Imtech Technical Services will be hosting 12 guests for a day’s fishing at Broadlands Lakes Fishery.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2018

22nd September 2018 – Children’s Fishing Day at Meon Springs

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Date: Saturday 22nd September 2018
Location: Meon Spring Fishery, Whitewool Farm, East Meon, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 1HW

Organised annually by Neil Mundy, the Children’s Fishing Day at Meon Springs is always very popular and well attended by a group of children that have special needs and appreciate our care and consideration.

Mentors may be required, so if you wish to join us, please contact [email protected].
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Posted on2018

20th September 2018 – Leckford Lakes, Hampshire

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Date: Thursday 20th September 2018
Location: Leckford Lakes, Hampshire


On Thursday 20th September, Fishing for Forces and the John Lewis Partnership will be hosting 18 guests from mixed regiments from Her Majesty’s Armed Forces for a day’s fishing at Leckford Lakes in Hampshire. Club members will kindly mentor.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event

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Posted on2018

16th June 2018 – Three Fly Challenge at Meon Springs

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Date: Saturday 16th June 2018
Location: Meon Spring Fishery, Whitewool Farm, East Meon, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 1HW

The Wild Trout Trust is a special charity that FFF wholeheartedly support as their dedication and hard work keep our rivers and streams flowing. Come and join us on Saturday 16th June for the Three Fly Challenge and enjoy a great day, while supporting a charity that ensures you can fish rivers and streams in the future.

 
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Posted on2017

4th October 2017 – Manningford Fishery, Pewsey

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Date: Wednesday 4th October 2017
Location: Manningford Trout Fishery, Pewsey, Wiltshire

Fifteen Guests from HQLF will be joining Fishing For Forces at Manningford Trout Fishery near Pewsey on October 4th.

MENTORS required please.

Mentors kindly note the postcode SN9 6JZ.

Manningford Trout Fishery
Manningford Bohune
Pewsey
Wiltshire
SN9 6NR

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2017

8th July 2017 – Chalybeate Trout Fishery

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Venue Chalybeate Trout Fishery. Hosts TWFFS. Again this year thanks to the generosity of Fidelity International Worldwide they are holding an interoffice (3 at present) fundraising competition for FFF with FIW matching every pound that is raised which is fantastic. Tunbridge Wells FFFS members will mentor the day and if it remotely like last year will be a resounding success with a laugh a minute and merciless banter galore.
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Posted on2017

6th June 2017 – Manningford Trout Fishery

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The event was a roaring success sponsored by Imtech Engineering Svs with the mentoring being done by angling clients of Imtech who did a superb job ably assisted by a few FFF mentors.

The guests were from the RAF 28 Sqdn with a few military personnel for a competitive mix. Biggest fish went to Mr Robinson (Mil) at 3lb 8ozs and Biggest bag to Mr Walker (RAF).

After a wet and windy the day died beautifully and judging by the smiles mission accomplished. Pint Tankards were presented to the winners by Simon Robson and most generously half pint tankards to the mentors.

Mr Walker (RAF) then kindly presented Mr Robson and I with beautiful framed prints signed by all the RAF lads and mine is already on my Wall of Pride. I feel privileged and “mission accomplished”.

Bill.
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Posted on2017

11th May 2017 – Corfe Lakes

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The Services Dry fly Association once again hosted a group of wounded personnel from Band of Brothers to give them a superb day at the waterside. The lakes were regrettably covered in Algae in parts but were still fishable but the decision was made top allow the guests to fish the river Avon running alongside. There were some stunning results and beautiful brown trout caught (mostly returned) but a few were kept for cooking. Again the SDFFA surpassed themselves with superb hospitality with lunch and the top question at prize giving was as usual “when is the next one”. Many competent and potential anglers will emerge from this group and it was a privilege to be part of the organising of such an event. Full credit must go to Jonathan Crew (SDFFA Hon Sec) for organising the catering and the day and Mark Hesketh (SDFFA Chair) for their enthusiasm throughout the day. New friends were made and future fishing days organised with BOB group and mentors. The club members again did a sterling job of mentoring so my sincere thanks to them all.

Bill Howell (Founder).

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Posted on2017

Cast and Blast Saturday 15th July 2017

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CAST AND BLAST SATURDAY 15th JULY 2017

AT MEON SPRINGS FISHERY (www.meonsprings.com) IN HAMPSHIRE IN AID OF FISHING FOR FORCES (FFF) registered charity 1141744 event sponsored by the John Lewis Partnership FFC

Fishing For Forces aims to provide a day’s fishing for all those who have been on Operational Duties. We believe they would benefit from the healing and therapeutic effects a day by the waterside has to offer. We also feel that this provides in a modest way, a means for those of the angling fraternity (and the public at large) who are not in the services, to show our appreciation of what they do for us.

FISHING COMPETITION

(LARGEST FISH AND HEAVIEST BAG) STARTS AT 09.30am WITH WEIGH IN AT 4.00PM. LARGE BLUE AND GOLDEN TROUT WILL ALSO BE PRESENT IN THE WATER. PRIZES WILL ALSO BE AWARDED IF THESE DIFFICULT FISH ARE CAUGHT. 20 CLAY SHOOT COMPETITION IN THE AFTERNOON. BREAKFAST/BBQ LUNCH AND AFTERNOON TEA AND CAKE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. LUNCH TIME RAFFLE AND AUCTION TO RAISE MUCH NEEDED FUNDS FOR FFF.

TO ENTER – PLEASE FILL IN THIS FORM (Word doc) AND SEND A CHEQUE FOR £90 TO NEIL MUNDY – PINE VIEW, FOREST ROAD, DENMEAD, HAMPSHIRE PO7 6UA (TEL – 02392 254 886 OR MOB – 07964 379 988). CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES WILL BE SATURDAY 1st  JULY.
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Posted on2016

14th April 2016 – Calstone Fishery, Wiltshire

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Date: Thursday 14th April 2016
Location: Calstone Fishery, Studley, Wiltshire

On Thursday 14th April, Fishing for Forces and Calstone FFS will host guests from Tedworth House and other PRCs for a day’s fishing at Calstone Lake in Wiltshire. Club members will kindly mentor.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2016

14th April 2016 – Chalybeate Springs, Tonbridge, Kent

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Date: Thursday 14th April 2016
Location: Chalybeate Springs, Eridge Green, Tonbridge, Kent

On Thursday 14th April, Fishing for Forces and Tunbridge Wells FFS will be hosting guests from Her Majesty’s Armed Forces for a day’s fishing at Chalybeate Springs in Tonbridge, Kent. Club members will kindly mentor.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2016

15th June 2016 – Manningford Trout Fishery, Pewsey, Wiltshire

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Date: Wednesday 15th June 2016
Location: Manningford Trout Fishery, Pewsey, Wiltshire

Fifteen Guests from HMAF will be hosted by Fishing For Forces at Manningford Trout Fishery near Pewsey on June 15th.

Mentors required please.

Mentors kindly note the postcode SN9 6JZ.

Manningford Trout Fishery
Manningford Bohune
Pewsey
Wiltshire
SN9 6NR

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2016

16th June 2016 – Calstone Fishery, Wiltshire

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Date: Thursday 16th June 2016
Location: Calstone Fishery, Studley, Wiltshire

On Thursday 16th June, Fishing for Forces and Calstone FFS will host guests from Tedworth House and other PRCs for a day’s fishing at Calstone Lake in Wiltshire. Club members will kindly mentor.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2016

Wild Trout Trust Three Fly Challenge on 18th June 2016

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Wild Trout TrustThe 2016 Wild Trout Trust Three Fly Challenge is on Saturday 18th June 2016 at Meon Springs Fishery in Petersfield, Hampshire. 

It is a fishing tournament that will test your skills, while raising money for the Wild Trout Trust, a worthwhile charity dedicated to preserving river habitats throughout the country.

The rules are simple.  You can use only three flies and points are awarded based on which fish are caught on which flies; a fish caught on a dry fly gets you  the most points, a nymph bags you the least.

It’s a sociable day and a favourite for many people in the angling calendar. In recent years around £13,000 has been raised for the charity.

Tickets cost £95.00, including breakfast, lunch, a 4-fish ticket and flies.

Book your ticket here
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Posted on2016

30th June 2016 – Manningford Fishery, Pewsey, Wiltshire

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Date: Thursday 30th June 2016
Location: Manningford Trout Fishery, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 6JZ

On Thursday 30th June 2016, fifteen guests from HMAF will be hosted by Lloyds Fly Fishing Society and Cozens O’Connell at Manningford Trout Fishery near Pewsey.

Club members will mentor.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2016

Fidelity International Worldwide Fly Fishing Competition on 2nd July

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Fidelity International Worldwide, under the guidance of Vicky Haxton and Mick Heasman, are for the second year running holding an inter office fly fishing competition to raise funds for FFF at Chalybeate Springs fishery.

Last year was a tremendous success with loads of ribald competitive banter and abuse and several attempted sword fights with 10ft fly rods. I had to referee with the aid of the Tunbridge Wells Fly fishers which is not easy when you are rolling around laughing at the antics of normally polite personnel from the financial industry, who were aiming flies into the blue and still catching fish. As I explained to one young lady that she would not beat her opponent in to submission with a light carbon fly rod, and this baseball bat would do the job, she promptly whacked me with it for suggesting she hurt her friend. Work that one out? It was a great day, made so by the participants for their fervour to win the glass tankards so coveted by all, and raising lots of money to boot.

Fidelity in their generosity will once more match every £ raised so please help us by donating on http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/FidelityF4F you will be enhancing the days at the waterside for our lads and lasses from HMAF.

My sincere thanks

Bill Howell (Founder)
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Posted on2016

4th July 2016: Petersfield to the Somme 2016: In aid of FFF

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The Petersfield to the Somme team
The team: Roger, Dom, Tom, Mark, Luke, Mike and Clive


This year, we are very fortunate to have a dedicated team of supporters who will be raising money for Fishing for Forces by taking on an incredible challenge. Roger, Dom, Tom, Mark, Luke, Mike and Clive will be cycling from Petersfield to the Somme and back again, a round trip of 350 miles! They will leave on the 4th July and return on the 9th.

A quote from their Virgin Money Giving page:
“We are aiming to raise money for ‘Fishing For Forces’ which is a charity that we have all experienced their work first hand. The aim of the charity is to provide a days fishing for those returning from operational duty, whether it’s part of a group day out at a local fishery or a day out with a local fisherman, easing their path back into a normal life, with lifetime support should they take up the sport. This charity is open to all servicemen and women from the Navy, Army and Air Force who have been affected both physically and mentally from conflict and individuals from WWII are still receiving the full support of the charity.”

“We are aiming to raise at least £2,500 for this amazing charity and we feel that it ties in well with the 100th anniversary of The Battle of the Somme, where we will be laying a wreath at a memorial service half way through our expedition, to pay our respects. ”

“Please help us support this amazing charity and any donations will be an amazing help and will be gratefully received. “

We feel very lucky to have such wonderful supporters, and we’d be thrilled if you would visit their page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/cycletothesomme and give what you can to help them reach their target.
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Posted on2016

14th July 2016 – Waldens Farm, Salisbury, Wiltshire

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Date: Thursday 14th July 2016
Location: Waldens Farm, East Grimstead, Salisbury, Wiltshire

On Thursday 14th  July, Fishing for Forces and SADAC will be hosting guests from Tedworth House and other PRCs for a day’s fishing at Waldens Farm. Club members will kindly mentor.

Please note: As requested by the MOD No Alcohol will be permitted at any FFF event
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Posted on2016

Meon Springs Cast & Blast Fundraising Day on 16th July 2016

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Meon SpringsMeon Springs’ Fishery in Petersfield, Hampshire, is holding its annual Cast & Blast Fundraising Day – combining fly fishing and clay shooting – on Saturday 16th July 2016 with the aim of raising money for Fishing for Forces.

The competition starts at 0930, with a weigh-in and prize giving at 4pm. There will be a 25 bird clay shoot competition in the afternoon.

As with the Three Fly Challenge, breakfast, BBQ lunch, and tea and cake are included in the price. There will also be a lunchtime raffle with some excellent prizes to help raise much needed funds.

Read the full article on the Meon Springs website

Thanks to all at Meon Springs for their support and we hope to see you there!
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