Warning to anglers after Burnley man has fishing tackle stolen (From Burnley and Pendle Citizen)

Warning to anglers after Burnley man has fishing tackle stolen

12:00pm Saturday 1st September 2012 in News

DETECTIVES have launched a probe after a Burnley fisherman was attacked for his fishing equipment in central Lancashire.

The 39-year-old victim was fishing at Mellings Wood in Preston last Sunday (Aug 26) when he was approached by a gang of teenagers.

He was attacked after one of the youngsters asked to use his rod and he refused.

The gang is thought to have fled with his fishing gear and up to £500 in cash.

Later on a fishing web forum, his injuries were said to be swelling to his face, a black eye, bruised nose and bruising to the ribs.

Det Con Hazra Patel from Preston CID, said: “The victim was punched in the face and hit in his ribs with a stick.

“Fortunately he was not badly injured but this was a nasty attack and we need the public’s help to catch the people responsible.”

The teenagers are said to be white, aged 17 to 18 years, slim, and wearing tracksuit bottoms tucked into their socks and hooded tops.

The victim is unsure exactly of how many were involved but they were said to have fled towards Fishwick Golf Club.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward and in particular to anyone who knows the whereabouts of the stolen coarse fishing equipment.

People with any information should contact DC Patel at Preston CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.