IF the British Government gives the go ahead, the medal winning NFA/Drennan Team England WILL be competing in September’s World Angling Championships in Moscow despite earlier reservations.

NFA International Event Director, Dick Clegg OBE, had serious concerns about the safety of his team of hot-rods and their tackle worth many thousands of pounds if this prestigious event was held in Russia.  But a personal letter from the Deputy Mayor of Moscow, Mr V.P. Chantsev, guarantees the event top security and has promised to co-operate in finding hotel accommodation for the participants in Moscow.

NFA Coach Mark Addy, has met the Russian delegate and is convinced the World Championship can take place without breaches of security.  The NFA called a meeting today (Friday  March 4^th 2005) at their Egginton Junction office when it was agreed to approach Martin Salter MP and the Foreign Office for their recommendations on security.

Dick Clegg commented: “the safety of our personnel is of paramount importance and we have to be certain our tackle will arrive in one piece and not be stolen in practise sessions”.  The Secretary of the World Organising Body (FIPS) Jackie Dupuis has already told his member clubs that CIPS/FIPS have no further reason to refuse the event in Russia.

NFA President Terry Fell JP commented : “If the Foreign Office give us the all clear on security we will do so. Let’s face it, we could soon be asked to fish the World Championships in China or South Africa. Security and expense are the two main problems we have to overcome.”