Eastbourne fishermen sell equipment to raise money for foodbank

Sussex Fishing Gurus have a stall outside Eastbourne Aquarium and Reptile Centre in Seaside Road, Eastbourne.

Owner of the aquarium James Lock, 42, said their aim is to give back to the community while also getting young people into fishing.

“It’s nice to give back because you never know when you might need it,” said James.

“I might need to go to the foodbank if I fall on hard times. It happens to people in their life.

“It’s just a nice thing to do. We have done two big shops so far. We have raised since 2022 just over £2,000. We still have money in the kitty to do another food shop.

James Lock also manages Eastbourne Aquarium and Reptile Centre (Image: The Argus)

“Items start at 50p, we have all sorts. It’s always outside the front of the shop. We get a lot of good feedback and lots of repeat customers.

“When people know it’s going to charity, they are more willing to give. We make nothing from it, it started as a side thing just a tiny table out the front. It’s got bigger and bigger since then.

“I enjoy getting people into the sport as well because it’s not cheap. It helps the younger generation. We can sell you a rod and reel for under £20. Obviously they still need to buy a fishing licence through the government.”

The group started in 2022 and buys food for Eastbourne Foodbank in the town.

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“We started Sussex Fishing Gurus, we’re just a group of mates who go fishing. We had some bits and pieces donated and decided to sell them.

“We would sell a bit of tackle once a month and it rolled on from there. Whenever the tackle is donated, we look through it, put a price on it and all the proceeds go to a foodbank.

“We wanted to give back to people. I’m a bit of a fishing tackle hoarder myself so I donated a lot. So did some of the other guys.”

Eastbourne Aquarium and Reptile Centre is open between 10am and 5pm every day apart from Sunday.