It's been a much brighter day here with just the odd light shower interspersed with quite a bit of sunshine.  The most noticeable feature of the weather though has been a very stiff north west wind that has kept it feeling cold all day.  The wind is supposed to strengthen tomorrow which will make casting near on impossible.  If it's not one thing it's another! so far this season we have had drought, heavy rain and strong wind which have all conspired in their own way to make fishing a real challenge.  Let's hope for some more settled weather later this month.

Many members will have known Richard Hargreaves at the Crown Hotel.  Its my sad duty to tell you that Richard died last night after a short illness. Richard was an MAA member for many years and although he had not fished these waters for some time he was proud of his membership.  Richard it was who first got me involved with the Association.  I well remember an evening in the Crown in 2002. The discussion had touched on fishing and Richard had talked about the MAA and its long history at Horton.  Just as I was heading for home Richard happened to mention that the club was seeking a new keeper.  I asked him what the keeper did and learnt a lot in the following 2 hours!  About a fortnight later two gentlemen arrived at my door.  "We understand that you want to be our new keeper" they said.  "We are here to interview you".  We had a chat.  They departed.  I thought no more of it.  A couple of weeks later I got a phone call.  "There's a working party up at the Tarn on Saturday" a voice said.  "As our new keeper you should be there".  I was there and the rest is history.

I will miss your tales, our conversations and your kindness Richard.  Thanks for getting me involved with a great bunch of people and a fascinating hobby.

Ian