MILLRIDGE ANGLING CLUB
by John Ward
In 1994, whilst Secretary of a Mill Hill Area Angling Club, I approached the then Verderer of the Totteridge Manor Association ( TMA ), Leslie Pollard, to discuss the formation of an Angling Club to fish and maintain the Long Pond on Totteridge Common. After successful discussions regarding rules, bait and maintenance, the birth of the Millridge Angling Club came about. The Club immediately set to, to help with the task of restoring the Long Pond to its former glory and our Club has flourished ever since.
In 1998 the Manor Association carried out extensive restorative work on the Long Pond including desilting the floor of the pond and widening and strengthening the bank on the side of Totteridge Lane. On completion of this work the pond was re-stocked with a mixture of coarse fish approved by the Environment Agency, with whom the Club has established an excellent relationship. We have called on them a number of times to check re-stocked fish, distressed fish and to test the condition of the water. Last year, because of the hot weather and the ensuing water evaporation, we purchased a high powered water recycling pump to reoxygenate the pond.
The pond, with its group of dense lily beds, contains a selection of coarse fish including Carp, Perch, Roach, Rudd, Tench and a few Eels. Once a year we ask all members to attend a working party to give the pond a spring clean. During the year volunteers cut the grass and maintain the adjacent area. The Club welcomes dedicated fishermen, families, grandparents and grandchildren of all ages. A wooden platform has been erected for disabled fishermen. All club subscriptions are used to maintain the pond and equipment, including some restocking of the fish, which is necessary because of increased loss due to poaching. With security in mind, all members are asked to carry a Club identification card. Night fishing is prohibited and Bailiffs patrol the pond.
Members have a high regard for the environment, including our friend the Heron, and the Club has a good relationship with the TMA which we hope will continue for many years to come.
Membership Secretary
John Ward
020 8906 3502
|
