Gone fishing with Riverside

Published by Jon Land for Riverside Group in Housing and also in Communities, Environment

Riverside Housing is aiming to get younger tenants in the Medway area hooked on fishing in a bid to reduce anti social behaviour through more activities for teens.

The social landlord, which has 153 properties in Medway, held a fishing taster course at the Buckland Fisheries the new centre for recreational fishing in Cliffe. The day proved a popular choice for local youngsters who tried their hand at fly and rudd fishing, nature rambles and other outdoor activities.

Jane Wiseman, community initiatives officer for Riverside Housing, said: We are planning to hold regular free fishing sessions for youngsters in Cliffe. We have already spent £1,650 to provide equipment and we are hoping to find further funding for staffing and licensing. Fishing is a great activity for young people to get involved in. It encourages concentration and focus, has a calming influence, and of course helps youngsters engage with the natural world.

The group enjoyed a talk about scuba diving and some took a ride under water in an amphibious car.

Mark Stone, fishery manager, is working with Jane to encourage more people to try their hand at fishing one of the most popular sports in the UK.

Mark said: The day was a great success. The youngsters were keen to have a go and some were thrilled to catch their first fish. We really want to get more kids involved, not only in fishing, but in developing an interest in the wildlife in the area.

Buckland is a haven for natural wildlife with kingfishers, peregrines and other birds gathering at the newly opened trout lake, family and match lakes due for completion this year.

The fishing day was also supported by London and Quadrant Housing Trust, Community Safety Police and Youth Services.