Quest to bring popular pastime back to life in one of Sheffield's largest council estates

Sophie Wilson and Ben Miskell have launched a search to find Arbourthorne’s fishermen and women, in a quest to bring a once popular fishing spot back to life after lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Arbourthorne Pond, which is located in the middle of one of Sheffield’s largest council estates, was once a popular spot for the local angling community and a space for different generations to meet together.

Many local pubs and working men’s clubs that have long since disappeared from the area, frequently used the pond for fishing competitions.

Now councillors have launched a search to find the next generational of budding angers.

Residents are being encouraged to get in touch in the hope of forming a new fishing club in Arbourthorne.

The search takes place on the back of efforts to create a Friends of Arbourthorne Pond Group to safeguard the area and work with the angling community to bring the space back into use.

The first meeting of the group is due to take place online at 6pm on Wednesday, January 27, with people encouraged to attend.

Local angler Tom Middleton said: “Arbourthorne Pond is a hidden gem for anglers and I’ve really enjoyed fishing in it before lockdown.

"I’ve caught lots of roach and perch, a few bream and even carp - it’s got such potential. It would be great to get more anglers to use the pond.”

Councillor Wilson said: “We really want to see the pond brought back to life and we know that there are thousands of anglers out there is Sheffield and hundreds of people interested in fishing in Arbourthorne.

"That’s why we are encouraging local anglers to get in touch and take part in a new fishing group.”

Residents can register to take part in Wednesday’s meeting using this link: https://tinyurl.com/pondzoom

*The history of angling is in large part the history of tackle, as the equipment for fishing is called. For over a thousand years, the fishing rod remained short, not more than a few feet (a metre or so) in length. The earliest references to a longer, jointed rod are from Roman times, about the 4th century.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.