WILTS & BERKS CANAL TRUST

To the Editor of the Swindon Advertiser

Dear Sir

In your issue of the 12th inst, there appeared an advertisement emanating, I presume, from the Wilts and Berks Canal Company, intimating that the sole right of fishing in the canal was to be let, commencing May1st 1879.

I as a great lover of the gentle craft, and for years a season ticket holder, should like to ask the said company what protection they can guarantee the lessee against netting and other illegal methods of capturing fish, which I regret to say, is carried on in the most determined and ruthless manner, without the slightest reguard to the size, condition, or season of the year.

Now, if the company can and will prevent those who resort to these means and unsportsmanlike practices I for one, would use my best endeavours to protect their interests in this matter, and I can further assure them there are men who are also desirous of preserving and rendering the canal a good fishing resort, so that the numerous votaries of the rod and line may enjoy a fair day's sport, and not as it is now, walk half a mile and not catch a bait.

Thanking you for the space you have so kindly devoted to this piscatorial grievance.

I am sir yours truly, AN OLD WALTONIAN. New Swindon April 23rd 1879

Swindon Evening Advertiser April 23 1879