Anglers raise over £30k in six years

Published on 23 Sept 2026

An Army veteran has raised over £30,000 for our charity with his annual charity fishing match in Essex which is now in its sixth year.

 Mark, who now works for Holdfast Training Services Ltd, a training provider for the Corps of Royal Engineers, held the annual ‘Carpers for Veterans Support’ fishing event in aid of our charity at Oak Lakes Fisheries in Southminster on 19 and 20 September.

A group photo of the 2026 Carpers for Veterans anglers wearing camouflage tops with Blind Veterans UK logos on them and Blind Veterans UK caps. The group are posed in front of a sign for Oak Lakes Fisheries. — Carpers For Veterans 2026

A mix of anglers, veterans, serving members of the Armed Services and civilians took part in the 48-hour competition which saw them fighting it out to catch the five biggest carp. There was also an award for the biggest carp overall, which this year weighed in at 28lbs.

A raffle and auction took place at the event which local businesses donated generously towards. This year’s event was made even more special when blind veteran Jules arrived on the Sunday to speak to the anglers about the support he has received from our charity and to also be presented with the cheque; which this year was for £5,170.  Jules says:

“Blind Veterans UK has done so much for me and my fellow blind veterans, they make such a difference to our daily lives. It’s always lovely to have the opportunity to meet supporters of the charity to thank them in person and to tell my story."

“The anglers at this event were all ex-Services themselves so there was the same military camaraderie as you get when a group of blind veterans get together. It was a great weekend and it’s just phenomenal that Mark does this for us year after year.”

Jules
Blind veteran

Organiser Mark served in the British Army for 30 years. He says:

"I’m fortunate that I still have my health, but some people are not so lucky. As veterans, we never know when we will need the support of charities like Blind Veterans UK. I am so proud to support them and to be doing something to give back.   
“Having Jules there really brought the event to life. Hearing his experiences hits home and reaffirms how Blind Veterans UK has helped him to rebuild his life after sight loss. Those in attendance could see first-hand how the money we raise has an impact.
 “I want to say a huge thank you to Mick, Kev and Paul at Oak Lakes Fisheries, who let us return year after year and use their lake at no charge for this event. Their support is amazing and the event wouldn’t be possible without their hospitality and generosity.”