Post by Hoppy on Apr 19, 2007 18:34:53 GMT -1
An unlicensed angler who tried to evade detection by making off on his bicycle was soon caught. An Environment Agency Wales Enforcement Officer followed him in his vehicle!
Kevin Burgess of Ninth Avenue, Llay, Wrexham pleaded guilty to two offences and was ordered to pay a total of £270 in fines and costs in the case brought by the Agency at Wrexham Magistrates' Court on 12 April 2007.
Burgess pleaded guilty by letter to:
· Having in his possession with intent to use it, an unlicensed rod and line contrary to section 27(b) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975. Fined £100.
· Failing to state his name and address to a water bailiff contrary to section 35 of the same Act. Fined £100.
He was also ordered to pay £70 in costs.
The offences occurred on 3 August 2006 at the Pike Pool, Wrexham.
The Court was told that having given false information to the bailiff, the defendant became nervous. While the bailiff was checking the details, Burgess fled the scene on his bicycle. The bailiff followed him, in his vehicle, caught up with him and informed him that he could be arrested. Burgess then gave his correct details.
Following the case an Agency spokesperson said: 'A day licence to fish for coarse fish and non-migratory trout costs just £3.25. It's much cheaper than getting a fine. The income from rod licence sales is reinvested in improvements to fisheries. Those who seek to avoid paying for a licence are depriving their fellow anglers of this much-needed income. Our enforcement officers will continue to carry out checks, and we will prosecute offenders as necessary.'
Anyone aged 12 or over, who fishes for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels in England and Wales must have an Environment Agency rod fishing licence. Licenses are available from Post Offices, on the internet www.environment-agency.gov.uk/fish or on the telesales service 0870 1662 662.
An Agency rod licence is required in addition to the permit to fish, which the angler buys from the owner of the fishery.
Licence Fees 2007/08
Coarse and Trout
Full £24.50
Concession £12.25
Junior £ 5.00
8 day £ 8.75
1 day £ 3.25
Salmon and sea trout
Full £66.50
Concession £33.25
Junior £33.25
8 day £21.00
1 day £ 7.00
Anyone who sees pollution, illegal tipping of waste, poaching, fish in distress or danger to the natural environment can contact the Agency's emergency hotline on 0800 80 70 60. The hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, calls are free and will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Kevin Burgess of Ninth Avenue, Llay, Wrexham pleaded guilty to two offences and was ordered to pay a total of £270 in fines and costs in the case brought by the Agency at Wrexham Magistrates' Court on 12 April 2007.
Burgess pleaded guilty by letter to:
· Having in his possession with intent to use it, an unlicensed rod and line contrary to section 27(b) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975. Fined £100.
· Failing to state his name and address to a water bailiff contrary to section 35 of the same Act. Fined £100.
He was also ordered to pay £70 in costs.
The offences occurred on 3 August 2006 at the Pike Pool, Wrexham.
The Court was told that having given false information to the bailiff, the defendant became nervous. While the bailiff was checking the details, Burgess fled the scene on his bicycle. The bailiff followed him, in his vehicle, caught up with him and informed him that he could be arrested. Burgess then gave his correct details.
Following the case an Agency spokesperson said: 'A day licence to fish for coarse fish and non-migratory trout costs just £3.25. It's much cheaper than getting a fine. The income from rod licence sales is reinvested in improvements to fisheries. Those who seek to avoid paying for a licence are depriving their fellow anglers of this much-needed income. Our enforcement officers will continue to carry out checks, and we will prosecute offenders as necessary.'
Anyone aged 12 or over, who fishes for salmon, trout, freshwater fish or eels in England and Wales must have an Environment Agency rod fishing licence. Licenses are available from Post Offices, on the internet www.environment-agency.gov.uk/fish or on the telesales service 0870 1662 662.
An Agency rod licence is required in addition to the permit to fish, which the angler buys from the owner of the fishery.
Licence Fees 2007/08
Coarse and Trout
Full £24.50
Concession £12.25
Junior £ 5.00
8 day £ 8.75
1 day £ 3.25
Salmon and sea trout
Full £66.50
Concession £33.25
Junior £33.25
8 day £21.00
1 day £ 7.00
Anyone who sees pollution, illegal tipping of waste, poaching, fish in distress or danger to the natural environment can contact the Agency's emergency hotline on 0800 80 70 60. The hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, calls are free and will be treated in the strictest confidence.