The first fishing day aimed at creating awareness of the water-based sport among black and ethnic minorities took place at the Abbeyfield Industrial Hamlet on 21st August 2005. The event, a joint initiative between the Environment Agency’s Leeds office and SHEBEEN (Sheffield Black & Ethnic Minority Environmental Network), was one of a series marking National Fishing Week.
Five girls and three boys from the Young Adults Action Forum attended, along with co-ordinators Elaine Virgo and Mahmood Hussein of the Earl Marshal Youth Centre.
So, were these young people hooked? It seems so: “We obviously found this a new and exciting experience, the only disappointment is that we cannot take the fish home to eat.” They enjoyed their visit and said they are looking forward to a follow-up event.
Pete Turner, the Environment Agency official who co-ordinated the event, noted their enthusiasm and promised a fly fishing event at the Thrybergh reservoir in Rotherham, where fish caught can be barbequed.
Any black and minority ethnic youth group interested in a fishing expedition should contact Maxwell Ayamba and Diana Tottle at SHEBEEN on 281 2320 or email shebeen_1@hotmail.com.