Teens get hooked on fishing as part of efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour

Young people are being encouraged to channel their energies into fishing as part of an innovative drive to reduce antisocial behaviour in Folkestone.

The project, called Fish Fest, aims to provide an angling experience for young people and has been arranged by Police Community Support Officer James Powell of the Folkestone Community Safety Unit.

Held across two days, 10 and 11 May, eight local teenagers accepted the invitation to take part in the experience.

The PCSO-led initiative saw Kent Police team up with Folkestone and Hythe District Council alongside local businesses and Golding Homes Housing Association following concerns by some local schools about antisocial behaviour.

It was the first time Fish Fest, which originated in Maidstone four years ago, was organised by Folkestone officers. Hosted by Coombewood Fishery in High Halden, participants learnt the basics of fishing and the impact antisocial behaviour can have on communities.

PCSO James Powell of Folkestone Community Safety Unit said:

‘Events like these give local young people something positive to focus on, and the response we have had from the kids and partner agencies alike, has been fantastic. ‘Not only has it helped tackle antisocial behaviour, but it has brought the young community closer together. Watching connections be made through the event has been a highlight for everyone involved.’

Cast A Thought, which provides fishing activities as a tool to support mental health, assisted in the running of the weekend’s activities, coaching the participants, and loaning them the relevant equipment. The weekend also involved healthy competition, with over £400 worth of prizes donated by Angling Direct & One More Cast. Every child walked away with a prize.

Fish Fest project founder PSCO Kirsty Greaves said:

‘As founder of the project I am immensely proud that we can keep Fish Fest going across the county, the main goal of the project was to help the young community and to continue building the rapport with the police to break down barriers for the future. ‘I am glad to be working in partnership and alongside PCSO Powell and Cast A Thought to keep up the good work in the Folkestone and Hythe area.'