GAPS given grant to help replace worn out and slippery old boards on the riverside

Anglers can now fish in sure-footed safety thanks to a grant from the UKs largest electricity distributor.

The 125-year-old Gipping Angling Preservation Society (GAPS) have replaced worn out and slippery old boards that marked where members could fish, with 14 newly built flat platforms that allow them to sit in safety by the river.

GAPS was given a £250 Team Sport Award from UK Power Networks via Gary Marjoram who is a supplier relationship manager based at the Bury St Edmunds office.

The 400-member club has five lakes and three stretches of the River Gipping where they can fish between Ipswich and Needham Market. The new platforms are on the bank of Perch Pit, in Great Blakenham.

A number of members volunteered to work preparing the area and build the frames and sturdy wooden tops.

Gary said; “I have spoken to a number of members while we were building the platforms and they all commented on what an improvement they have made, making access to the water much better.”

Les Hart, the club secretary, said: “I want to express my thanks for the kind donation from UK Power Networks. In challenging times, like now, where as a club we are seeing spiraling costs, donations like this help us continue to try and improve our waters. At the same time we can keep membership at an affordable price.”