Secretary’s Mid-Autumn Update

As we adjust our clocks and transition into the darker evenings of mid-autumn, the unmistakable signs of the season are upon us. Although we have experienced some rainfall recently, it has not quite been as plentiful as we might have wished. Nonetheless, we are now facing eight weeks of gradually shortening days, a reminder that winter is not far off.

 

Charity Fundraising Success

Despite the onset of longer nights, there is uplifting news to share from our recent charity fundraising initiatives. The Charity Match against Tring marked a promising beginning, raising £90. In addition, Fantasy League entries contributed a further £100, and direct donations exceeded these figures, amounting to £185.

We owe a special acknowledgement to our member, Gabor, whose coordination was instrumental. Gabor also set up a Just Giving page via the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) website, allowing us to reach a broader community for support. The use of this platform meant many contributions attracted Gift Aid, further increasing the funds directed to CRUK.

The charity match was dedicated, through the Just Giving page, to the memory of our recently departed member, Tom Harvey. Collectively, our efforts have raised a remarkable total of £537.50 for CRUK—a testament to the generosity and commitment of all HPoWAS members. Sincere thanks go to everyone who participated and donated.

 

Fantasy League Update

Turning to the Fantasy League, we are now four matches into the season. Peelers Dog Nobblers have established a decisive lead over the other nine teams. There is still plenty of time for changes in the rankings, and I had hoped more members would join in, as the league provides both enjoyment and a simple way to bolster our fundraising. With any luck, next year’s competition will see even greater participation.

 

Water Quality Monitoring

On the subject of water quality, we now have three years’ worth of detailed water test results from Little Stoke available on our website for those interested in a closer look. The overarching message from this data is concerning: water quality has declined over the period, a change likely linked, though not solely attributable, to increased illegal discharges from the South Moreton Sewage Treatment Works (STW). This facility releases into Bradford Brook, which subsequently feeds into the Thames below Wallingford.

Water testing in this area has been conducted by the Reading & District Angling Association (RDAA), local residents, and ourselves, and the Angling Trust (AT) has now joined the effort. Our collective data is contributing to a growing body of evidence supporting the urgent need for an upgrade at South Moreton. Martin Salter, Chief Policy Advisor and former Campaigns Co-ordinator at AT, is currently negotiating with Tim Beech, Environmental Partnership Lead at Thames Water. Encouragingly, remedial works are set to commence at South Moreton in early 2026, with completion anticipated by year-end. We are hopeful these improvements will soon be reflected in the water quality.

 

Fishing News

Looking ahead, the final of the Knockout Competition between Trev and Gary is scheduled for 9 November at Court Farm. Best of luck to both anglers for a successful and enjoyable contest.

Of particular note, Tim Watts achieved a notable catch of over 16lb of roach at Little Stoke on 19 October. This is an encouraging sign and, with any luck, heralds the arrival of better quality fish into the winter months—especially as bream, chub, and larger perch and roach have been noticeably scarce throughout the summer and early autumn.

 

Finally

If you know anyone seeking to join a fishing club, please let them know about our special offer featured on the website: new members can now enjoy 17 months of membership for the price of 12. It’s excellent value and, as many can attest, offers a warm and friendly welcome to all.