Hi guys,
As a newcomer to the wonderful world of fly fishing, I'm immensely grateful to anyone who offers help and advice.
So I wanted to put on record my thanks to one particular person - his name is Ian (sorry, don't know his surname) and he runs the Craufurdland Estate Trout Fishery just outside Fenwick in Ayrshire, Scotland.
I was down there for the day earlier this week and Ian was incredibly helpful: Not only did he spend an hour giving me tips on casting (I'm still pretty awful but I'll get there), he also offered loads of advice on what flies to use and even gifted me a few dozen he just had lying around. He even lent me a rod with a heavier line for the afternoon to see if that might help with my casting problems.
We shared a brew at lunchtime and to my amazement I learned that Ian is in the process of being made redundant, which is a terrible shame.
I don't know anything about the whys and wherefores of this decision - it's none of my business and I know the recession is hitting everyone - but I do know that people like Ian are a tremendous asset to any business.
His knowledge, patience and experience would be valuable to any fishery.
He said he's trying for a ghillie's job in the Aberdeen area and I wish him every bit of luck because the guy deserves a break.
Ian, if you read this, best of luck mate - hopefully I'll get down again in the next few weeks and see you before you leave - and if anyone knows Ian or hears of any suitable work going more locally, give him a bell please - the fishery number is (01560) 600569.
Cheers
Red Devil

If only the world had more Ians. Good luck

Sounds like exactly the sort of bloke they're looking for at Rockbourne!! (see thread) - shame it's half the country away, but he may be interested..?

Hi Guys

I just read this saying that Ian at Crauferland is to made redundant.

I have to say that I have been visiting this fishery for many years and this is one place where myself and my son learned to fly fish.

Ian was always pleasant and very helpful to someone who had no idea about flyfishing with an 8 year old boy who was relly keen to learn.

The one thing I remember is that every time we visited Crauferland , lan made a point of checking with son to see how he was doing and to pass on any help and advice he could.

Its a great shame to hear he could be made reduandant as he was a sound guy always keen to help.

I hope someone takes the opertunity to give him a job as he would surly help any fishery he goes to.

Best Of Luck Ian.

Cheers.