An Army veteran has raised over £30,000 for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-Service men and women, with his annual charity fishing match in Essex.
Mark Jobling, who now works for Holdfast Training Services Ltd, a training provider for the Corps of Royal Engineers, held the sixth annual ‘Carpers for Veterans Support’ fishing event in aid of the charity at Oak Lakes Fisheries in Southminster on 19 and 20 September.
A mix of anglers, veterans, serving members of the Armed Services and civilians took part in the 48-hour competition which saw them fighting it out to catch the five biggest carp. There was also an award for the biggest carp overall, which this year weighed in at 28lbs.
A raffle and auction took place at the event which local businesses donated generously towards. This year’s event was made even more special when blind veteran Jules Lee arrived on the Sunday to speak to the anglers about the support he has received from Blind Veterans UK and to also be presented with the cheque; which this year was for £5,170.
Jules says:
“Blind Veterans UK has done so much for me and my fellow blind veterans, they make such a difference to our daily lives. It’s always lovely to have the opportunity to meet supporters of the charity to thank them in person and to tell my story.
“The anglers at this event were all ex-Services themselves so there was the same military camaraderie as you get when a group of blind veterans get together. It was a great weekend and it’s just phenomenal that Mark does this for us year after year.”
Organiser Mark said:
“I served in the British Army for 30 years. I’m fortunate that I still have my health, but some people are not so lucky. As veterans, we never know when we will need the support of charities like Blind Veterans UK. I am so proud to support them and to be doing something to give back.
“Having Jules there really brought the event to life. Hearing his experiences hits home and reaffirms how Blind Veterans UK has helped him to rebuild his life after sight loss. Those in attendance could see firsthand how the money we raise has an impact.
“I want to say a huge thank you to Mick, Kev and Paul at Oak Lakes Fisheries, who let us return year after year and use their lake at no charge for this event. Their support is amazing and the event wouldn’t be possible without their hospitality and generosity.”
If you are part of a group that would like to find out how your special interest or hobby could be used to raise money for Blind Veterans UK, please email fundraising@blindveterans.org.uk
Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans across the country, but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.
If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss, then please get in touch. Call 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/gethelp
