24 October 2007
Young people across Eastbourne are being given the opportunity to learn about fishing and the environment as part of a project set up by Eastbourne Borough Council. The project has been set up in partnership with The Environment Agency, East Sussex Youth Offending Team and The Eastbourne Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership. The aim is to encourage positive use of time and provide an effective form of education for teenagers which don’t always thrive in a classroom environment.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Spokesperson for Housing, Health and Community Services, Councillor Margaret Bannister says, “This project has proved to be very popular amongst the young people to whom it has been offered. I hope that many more teenagers will be able to take advantage of this opportunity. It is an ideal way for young people to learn about the environment and countryside around Eastbourne, while at the same time developing a hobby that can last them a lifetime.”
Young people have visited various locations across East Sussex over the summer holidays including local fisheries, Mushroom Farm in Hailsham and Hydneye Lake in Shinewater, both of which have given their kind support to the project. All sessions are led by professional fishing coach and well known match fisherman Tim Phillips who places great emphasis on the welfare of the environment and wildlife, whilst teaching youngsters how to fish.
Young people who have shown an interest in developing what they have learnt will be given the opportunity to gain a formal Open College Network qualification in Fishing and the Environment. Committed individuals will also be encouraged to help run future sessions.
