22/05/06
 STATEMENT
FROM THE PIKE ANGLERS CLUB OF GREAT BRITAIN
21:30
Monday, 22/05/06 For
immediate release... Two
members have resigned from the Pike Anglers Club after admitting a gross breach
of its code of conduct in an angling newspaper. Nigel Williams and Gary Banks,
both from the West Midlands, told Angling Times they tried to smuggle live roach
and carp on board a ferry bound for Ireland. But
the fish were found when customs oficers searched their cars at Holyhead, on May
12, and both now face prosecution. PAC
chairman Colin Goodge said: "This is a sorry episode which reflects badly
on pike fishing at a time when more than ever, we need to show that we are capable
of pursuing our sport responsibly. "British
pike anglers have enjoyed the hospitality of the people of Ireland for more than
three decades and it does us untold harm when this hospitality is abused, particularly
by two prominent anglers who should be setting an
example to others. "In
view of some of the threats our sport faces nearer home, we would urge all pike
anglers - whether they are PAC members or not - to fish responsibly and in accordance
with our code of conduct." The
PAC Code of Conduct states moving livebaits from one water to another is an offence
and should not be practised. It
warns: "The good name of the PAC and the esteem in which it is held has taken
many years to build up, yet irresponsible actions by one or more members could
destroy that hard work. The name of the PAC is entrusted to
each and every
member and all members are PAC representatives." ENDS
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