Early indications are that at least £10,000 has been raised at the recent competition and auction held at Rutland Water for the Help for Heroes charity.

Despite heavy showers and blustery winds, 80 anglers took part, including former Arsenal and England goalkeeper, David Seaman, and fishing personality, John Wilson. The weather made fishing difficult although a good rod average of 3.2 was achieved.

Local anglers, Richard and Tom Cooper from Empingham, took their limits by 2pm from the main basin and went on to win the match with 16 fish for 29lb 6½oz.  Hard on their heels were Rob Edmunds and Clive Morgan with 16 fish for 28lb 11oz.  Third place fell to Gareth Jones and Adam Worker, a member of the England Youth team, with 16 fish for 28lb 4oz. The best fish of the day was caught by Bob Shaw – a very nice 4lb 14¾oz rainbow.

After the match the anglers enjoyed a barbecue style meal in the Castaways restaurant at the Fishing Lodge. This was followed by the charity auction.

The final sum raised will be announced shortly.