THE National Vintage Fishing Tackle Fair takes place this Sunday, May 15 at the Abbey Stadium in Redditch.
Sponsored by Angling Auctions, this is the first time the spring fair has been held since pre-Covid times.
The fair, the country’s largest antique, vintage and second-hand fair dedicated to fishing tackle is now in its 18th consecutive year.
It will have 36 stalls featuring dealers, collectors, enthusiasts and those having a post-lockdown clear out of their lofts.
All the stalls have already been sold and there is currently a waiting list of people wanting to trade and this popular event.
Local reel maker and engineer Garry Mills of The Mill Tackle Company in Studley will have a stall as he has done since the inception of the fair.
Garry will be imparting advice, making repairs on the day, taking in longer term ones along with orders for his bespoke reels.
There will also be a special appearance by taxidermist and author Barry Williams who will be signing copies of his seminal work ’The Domesday Book of English Fish Taxidermy’.
All Redditch residents who may have ancient cased fish tucked away in their attics or parlours are encouraged to bring them to the fair for Barry’s appraisal and appreciation.
Long standing fair sponsor Neil Freeman of Angling Auctions will also be at the fair to value old tackle and again all residents from Redditch and further afield are encouraged to bring tackle along that they may wish to have valued.
This will be a free service offered on the day and a unique opportunity to pick the brains of some of the country’s leading authorities on vintage and antique fishing tackle.
The doors open at 9am sharp on Sunday morning and close at 2pm and entry is via the main entrance to the The Abbey Stadium Sports Centre. Organiser John Andrews will be on the door and any advance enquiries should be directed to him on 07980 274 383.
Entry £4 cash only, parking is free and there is wheelchair access and a cafe on site.
