Purpose:
This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected from all members,
volunteers, visitors, and officials of Weston Super Mare Angling Association. By joining
the club, you agree to abide by these rules to help maintain a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable
environment for all.

1. General Conduct
All members shall:
 Act with integrity, honesty, and respect toward others.
 Treat fellow anglers, club officials, landowners, and the general public politely and
courteously.
 Comply fully with all club rules, fishery regulations, and relevant laws, including
those related to rod licences and close seasons.
 Respect the natural environment, including wildlife, vegetation, and water quality.

2. On the Bank
Members must:
 Use designated fishing areas and paths only.
 Keep noise to a minimum and avoid disruptive behaviour.
 Remove all litter from their peg and surrounding area—leave no trace.
 Use only permitted baits and tackle as per club/fishery rules.
 Handle all fish with care and ensure fish welfare at all times (e.g., use unhooking
mats, keep fish wet, return them promptly).
 Observe all rules on the use of keepnets and landing nets.

3. Junior and Vulnerable Anglers
Members must:
 Show extra care and support for junior members and anglers who may be
vulnerable.
 Never engage in bullying, abusive language, or discriminatory behaviour.
 Adhere to the club’s Safeguarding Policy.
 Report any concerns or inappropriate behaviour to the Club Welfare Officer.

4. Fair Play and Ethics
All members are expected to:
 Compete fairly and respect fellow anglers in matches or club events.
 Avoid cheating or manipulating results.
 Respect others’ space and avoid encroaching on neighbouring pegs without
permission.
 Not use illegal substances or be intoxicated while on club waters.

5. Use of Social Media
 Members should not post offensive, defamatory, or inappropriate content
relating to the club, its members, or its waters.
 Respect confidentiality and avoid sharing sensitive information without permission.

6. Disciplinary Action
Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in:
 A verbal or written warning
 Suspension from club activities or waters
 Termination of membership, following a disciplinary process
 In serious cases, the matter may be referred to external authorities

7. Acknowledgement
By becoming a member of Weston Super Mare Angling Association, you agree to uphold
this Code of Conduct at all times.

 Constitution 

1.       a.      The association shall be called The Weston-Super-Mare Angling Association. (the Association) 

         b.      The objective of the Association shall be the practice and promotion of coarse fishing. 

         c.      The following shall form a Committee for the purpose of conducting business for and on behalf of its members and shall be re-elected yearly at the Annual General Meeting viz: 

                                                              i.      Chairman (Executive Officer) 

                                                              ii.      Vice Chairman 

                                                            iii.      Secretary (Executive Officer) 

                                                            iv.      Treasurer (Executive Officer) 

                                                              v.      Head Bailiff 

                                                            vi.      And the bearer of any other office it may be deemed necessary to institute. 

         d.      Candidates for election must be proposed, seconded, and elected by a show of hands at the Annual General Meeting. 

         e.      The committee shall have the power to add or alter such rules and byelaws of the Association to meet any circumstances that may occur. Any changes become effective immediately. 

         f.        They shall be the sole authority for matters not directly covered by those rules and by-laws. Any changes must be ratified at the next Annual General Meeting. 

2.       a.      All Association members shall be bound by this Constitution which may be altered only by a majority vote of the members present at the Annual General Meeting or at an Extraordinary General Meeting convened for that purpose. 

         b.      Any changes to the Constitution will take immediate effect from the date of the meeting at which they were passed. 

         c.      A copy of the Constitution shall be made available on the Associations Social media platform and Website. 

3.       a.      All equipment, assets and monies are, and shall remain the property of the Association, except as covered by the procedure for winding up the Association as per Para. 11. 

         b.      In the event of individual members or groups of members leaving the association, they shall have no call upon Association properties or funds. 

Membership 

4.       a.      There shall be four classes of membership: 

                                                              i.      Adults aged between sixteen and sixty-four years 

                                                              ii.      Junior aged between twelve and fifteen years 

                                                            iii.      Young Junior aged eleven and under 

                                                            iv.      Senior aged sixty-six years and over 

                                                              v.      Life membership - which shall be bestowed by election at an Annual General Meeting 

         b.      Junior and Life members shall not be entitled to a vote. 

Subscriptions 

5.       a.      The membership year is from 1st April to 31st March. 

         b.      Affiliation fees due will be those set at the previous Annual General Meeting. Fee collection to be managed by bodies nominated by committee each year. 

         c.      A member whose sixteenth birthday falls after the date on which Affiliation fees become due shall pay the Junior rate, except that a new member admitted to the Association after that date, who pays a subscription on or after his or her sixteenth birthday, shall pay the Adult rate. 

6.       a.      Life members shall be granted free membership. 

         b.      Membership is non-transferable. 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) 

7.       a.      An AGM shall be held in the month of February each year, on a date to be decided by the Committee. At least one months’ notice shall be given and notice of the meeting inserted into the Weston Mercury (online) and posted on the social media platform and Website. 

         b.      Only fully paid-up Association members shall be eligible to vote; there shall be no voting by proxy. 

         c.      Officers of the Club shall prepare written reports which shall be presented at the AGM. 

         d.      Minutes shall be kept and a draft made available to members prior to the next AGM, or at any other time on request. 

         e.      The Chairman (or Vice Chairman), Secretary, Treasurer and one fifth of all voting members shall form a quorum. 

         f.        Resolutions proposed by an Association member must be in the hands of the Secretary at least one week prior to the date of the AGM. 

         g.       The adoption of a resolution shall be by majority vote. In the event of equality, the Chairman may exercise a casting vote, which shall be in addition to his/her personal voting right. 

EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING (EGM) 

8.       a.      An EGM may be called by the Committee, or, in writing by a minimum of six Association members. The subject of the EGM shall be the only matter to be discussed and voted on. The Secretary shall call the meeting within two calendar months of receiving the request and shall give all members a minimum of fourteen days’ notice of such meeting via the social media platform and Website. 

         b.      Only adult and senior members shall be eligible to vote; there shall be no voting by proxy. 

         c.      Minutes shall be kept and a draft made available to Association members without undue delay after the meeting. 

         d.      The Chairman (or Vice Chairman), Secretary, Treasurer, and ten percent of the previous year’s voting members shall form a quorum. 

         e.      The adoption of a resolution shall be by majority vote. In the event of equality, the Chairman may exercise a casting vote, which shall be in addition to his/her personal voting right. 

COMMITTEE 

9.       a.      The management of the Association shall be in the hands of the Committee. A member may hold no more than two offices. The offices of Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer shall be kept separate. 

         b.      The term of office of the Committee shall commence at the end of the AGM or EGM at which they were elected to the end of the next AGM. 

         c.      Minutes of all meetings shall be kept and made available to Association members on request. 

         d.      A minimum of six Committee Meetings shall be held each year, with a period not exceeding three months between any two. 

         e.      Four Committee members, of whom two must be Executive Officers, shall form a quorum. 

         f.        In the event of the office of Chairman, Secretary or Treasurer becoming vacant, an EGM shall be held to elect a successor. The Vice Chairman shall assume the responsibilities as Acting Chairman and the Committee shall appoint an Acting Secretary or Treasurer to serve in the interim. 

         g.       In the event of any other Committee post becoming vacant, the Committee shall inform the membership of the vacancy and request nominations or volunteers to fill the post. If only one nomination/volunteer is received, then that person may be appointed to the post by the Committee. Should more than one member stand for election, the Committee will resolve the matter. 

         h.      The adoption of a resolution shall be by majority vote. In the event of equality, the Chairman may exercise a casting vote, which shall be in addition to his/her personal voting right. 

         i.        The Committee shall have the power to expel a member or refuse the issue or re-issue of membership. 

         j.        It is incumbent upon all committee members to aid in organised work-parties where vegetation and/or platforms need attention. 

ACCOUNTS 

10.      a.      The books of Account shall be closed at the 31st. December and an audited statement of accounts shall be presented at the AGM. 

         b.      Except for Petty Cash, all monies shall be kept in a Bank and/or Building Society account approved by the Committee. The Association Chairman, the Vice-Chairman, the Secretary, and the Treasurer shall be the authorising signatories, of whom a minimum of two shall authorise all withdrawals. 

         c.      The books of Account shall be open to inspection by members of the Association by arrangement with the Treasurer. 

WINDING UP 

11.      a.      The decision to close the Association may only be taken at an AGM or an EGM called for that purpose. A two-thirds majority of members attending is required to carry the motion. 

         b.      In the event that the association ceases to exist, all assets and the balance of cash, after outstanding debts are paid, shall be transferred to XXXXXX. 

ANY MEMBER BREACHING THIS CONSTITUTION MAY BE PENALISED BY THE ASSOCIATION. 

 A)    GENERAL 

1) Your permit must be carried on you at all times while fishing association waters. 

2) Fishing may only take place during the open fishing season: 16th June to 14th March. Exceptions are  the Old River Axe, Summer Lane, Locking Pit and Mendip Spring where fishing is permitted throughout the year. 

3) Fishing may only take place between sunrise and sunset. 

4) Fishing shall be by fair rod and line only. 

5) No more than two rods may be used at any one time (or one per member if sharing a swim). "Three rod" Permits are available for river fishing and the Old Axe only. 

6) Members will keep a minimum distance of 20 yards apart unless invited. 

     i) Where swims or platforms are provided distances may be reduced. 

7) Main line and hook line is not to exceed 11lb breaking strain. 

     i) Exception to this is when carp/predator fishing where specific rules apply. 

8) When fishing our lakes and ponds hooks will be barbless. Hooks must not be larger than size 8. 

9) Surface fishing is prohibited on our lakes and ponds. 

10) Fishing may only take place from fishing platforms where they are provided. Fishing may not take place from bridges or other similar structures. 

11) Tackle must not be left unattended whilst the hook is baited and in the water. 

12) All fish must be returned alive to the water in which they were caught. 

     i) Fish removal or moving between venues is not permitted. 

13) When an Association match has been announced all non-competing members must vacate the venue at least two hours before the start of the competition. 

14) When taking a picture of your catch do not stand up, but rather squat down to avoid unnecessary problems. 

15) Particle baits (nuts, seeds and pulses) are prohibited - exceptions are Hemp, Tares and Corn. 

16) Artificial baits are prohibited - Digestible baits excepted (e.g. Boilies and Pellets). 

17) All members are to be in possession of a suitable Landing net and Unhooking mat. 

18) Juniors must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times in and around the Mendip Spring venue. 

19) All forms of artificial bait are prohibited at Mendip Spring. Pellet is acceptable in moderation. 

20) No carp to be kept in keepnets – except in matches. 

B)    CARP 

1) Maximum Boilie size of 16mm hook bait. 

2) Crushed Boilie and Boilie up to 10mm loose feed. 

     i) Maximum of a half Kilogram to be used per day. 

3) Maximum hook size 8. 

4) Maximum 2 kilogram of pellet/groundbait to be used per day – except rivers and drains 

5) Main line to be minimum 10lb and maximum 15lb breaking strain. 

6) Braided hooklinks may be used. 

7) Landing nets to be a minimum of 36 inches. 

8) A suitable unhooking mat must be used. 

     i) Baby mats, towels or carrier bags are not acceptable. 

9) Possession of a carp care kit is mandatory. 

10) No fish to be held whilst standing. 

11) Rigs must be free running, any form of fixed rig is prohibited. 

12) The “Magic Twig” including any variation is prohibited. 

C)   PIKE/PREDATOR 

1) The use of livebait and freshwater deadbait is prohibited. 

2) A minimum 18 inches of 15lb wire trace is to be used. 

3) Treble hooks are to be a maximum size 2 and minimum size 8. 

4) Line to be a maximum of 25lb and minimum of 15lb. 

5) Unhooking mats to be used. 

     i) Soft, wet grass is acceptable as a last resort. 

6) Use bare hands only when handling pike. 

7) All fish to be landed using a net. 

     i) Method of chinning acceptable as a last resort. 

     ii) Any form of boga grip is prohibited. 

8) Lure hooks to be barbless. 

     i) Crushed barbs are permitted. 

9) Semi-barbed hooks may be used when deadbaiting. 

10) No fish to be held whilst standing. 

11) Pike are to be held upright and rested in the water until strong enough to be released. 

12) Predator fishing in Summer Lane, Locking Pit and Mendip Spring is prohibited. 

     i) This includes any form of lure or deadbait fishing. 

 Any person in breach of these rules will be reported to the committee. 

A further breach of the rules will require you to attend the next committee meeting where appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. 

Last Reviewed: September 2025

1. Introduction
Volunteers are vital to the operation and success of Weston Super Mare Angling
Association. This policy sets out the club’s approach to recruiting volunteers in a safe,
inclusive, and transparent manner, ensuring that all volunteers are appropriately supported
and aligned with the club's values and objectives.

2. Purpose of the Policy
This policy aims to:
 Promote equal opportunities in volunteer recruitment.
 Ensure that all volunteers are suitable for their roles, particularly when working with
children or vulnerable adults.
 Provide clarity around roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
 Ensure compliance with safeguarding and legal requirements.

3. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals who offer their time and skills voluntarily for the benefit of
the club. This includes, but is not limited to:
 Coaching and instructing
 Junior supervision
 Event support
 Fishery maintenance
 Committee and administrative roles
 Welfare and safeguarding roles

4. Volunteer Roles and Opportunities
All volunteer roles will have a clear description outlining:
 The tasks and responsibilities involved
 Time commitment expected
 Skills or experience required
 Support or training provided

The club encourages expressions of interest from anyone who shares its values and
supports its aims, regardless of background, experience, or ability.

5. Recruitment Process
The recruitment process may vary depending on the role but generally includes:
a. Expression of Interest
Potential volunteers are encouraged to contact the club via [email/phone/form] to express
their interest.
b. Informal Discussion or Interview
An informal meeting may be arranged to:
 Discuss the volunteer’s interests, skills, and availability
 Match them with a suitable role
 Explain club expectations and policies
c. References or Checks
For certain roles—especially those involving children or adults at risk—the club may:
 Request references
 Require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
 Ask for completion of safeguarding training
No one will be permitted to begin volunteering in a regulated role until these checks have
been completed.

6. Induction and Support
All volunteers will be given:
 A welcome and induction to the club
 Relevant policies and procedures (e.g. safeguarding, health and safety)
 A point of contact (e.g. team leader or committee member)
 Access to any necessary training or guidance

7. Equality and Diversity
The club is committed to equal opportunities and will not discriminate on the basis of age,
disability, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. All
volunteers will be treated fairly and with respect.

8. Volunteer Conduct

Volunteers are expected to:
 Follow the Club’s Code of Conduct
 Work respectfully with all members, guests, and the public
 Follow health, safety, and safeguarding procedures
 Represent the club positively at all times

9. Ending a Volunteer Role
A volunteer may end their involvement at any time. Likewise, if a role is no longer required or
if the volunteer's behaviour is not in line with club policies, the club may decide to end the
arrangement. In either case, the decision will be handled respectfully and fairly.

10. Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Committee or following any significant changes
in club structure, legal obligations, or safeguarding guidance.
Policy Owner: Sam Johnson – Club Secretary
Next Review Date: September 2030
Contact: Sam J – [email protected]

Last Reviewed: September 2025

1. Policy Statement
Weston Super Mare Angling Association recognises its responsibility to protect and enhance
the natural environment in which our fisheries operate. We are committed to promoting
sustainable angling practices that safeguard fish stocks, water quality, local wildlife, and
natural habitats for current and future generations.

2. Objectives
We will actively work to:
 Minimise our environmental impact through responsible angling and club
management.
 Protect and enhance water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
 Prevent pollution and littering of the environment.
 Educate members and promote awareness of environmental issues.
 Work in partnership with local authorities, landowners, conservation groups, and
national bodies like the Angling Trust and Environment Agency.

3. Key Principles and Actions
A. Litter and Waste Management
 All members must take all litter home, including line, bait packaging, and food
wrappers.
 No leftover bait is to be thrown into the water at the end of a session.
 Club officials will monitor venues for litter and may issue warnings or sanctions for
non-compliance.
B. Bait and Water Quality
 Only permitted baits are to be used on club waters. Over-baiting is discouraged.
 The use of toxic or non-biodegradable materials (e.g., certain plastics, chemical
additives) is prohibited.
 Regular checks will be carried out to monitor for signs of water pollution or
degradation.
C. Fish Welfare and Handling
 All fish must be handled with care and returned to the water promptly.

 Barbless hooks on our ponds or micro-barbed hooks on our rivers and drains are
required (as per club rules).
 Use of unhooking mats, landing nets, and fish-friendly keepnets is mandatory
where stated.
 No fish are to be removed from the water without permission.
D. Habitat Protection
 Members must avoid damaging banks, vegetation, and aquatic plants.
 No unauthorised cutting, digging, or alteration of pegs or the surrounding
environment.
 Wildlife (including birds, amphibians, and insects) must not be disturbed or fed
inappropriately.
E. Invasive Species Prevention
 Members are expected to follow the Check, Clean, Dry protocol to prevent the
spread of invasive non-native species between waters.
 Nets, mats, and equipment must be dried or disinfected before use on club waters.

4. Education and Awareness
 The club will promote environmental awareness through newsletters, signage,
induction of new members, and social media.
 Members are encouraged to report pollution, dead fish, or other environmental
concerns to the Club Secretary, Environment Agency (0800 80 70 60), or relevant
authority.

5. Compliance and Monitoring
 This policy applies to all members, guests, and visitors to club waters.
 Breaches of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including warnings,
suspensions, or expulsion.
 The policy will be reviewed annually by the Committee to ensure it remains up to
date and effective.

6. Policy Review
Reviewed by: Ron Stark - Club Chairman
Next Review Date: September 2030
Contact: Ron S – [email protected]

Last Reviewed: September 2025

1. Policy Statement
Weston Super Mare Angling Association is committed to providing a safe and healthy
environment for all its members, volunteers, guests, and visitors. The club recognises its
responsibility to reduce health and safety risks as far as is reasonably practicable and
expects all individuals involved with the club to cooperate in maintaining safe angling
practices and facilities.

2. Objectives
Our Health & Safety objectives are to:
 Prevent accidents and cases of ill health during club activities.
 Ensure safe access to and from fishing areas.
 Promote safe use of angling equipment and tackle.
 Identify and manage risks associated with angling and fishery maintenance.
 Provide appropriate information, instruction, and training as needed.
 Ensure compliance with relevant laws and best practice guidelines.

3. Responsibilities
A. The Club Committee Will:
 Take overall responsibility for the implementation of this policy.
 Ensure risk assessments are carried out and reviewed regularly.
 Appoint a Health & Safety Officer or responsible committee member.
 Ensure all incidents and near misses are recorded and reviewed.
 Maintain safe access paths, fishing platforms, and facilities.
 Provide appropriate signage and information where required.
B. Members and Volunteers Must:
 Take reasonable care of their own health and safety.
 Report hazards, unsafe conditions, or accidents to a committee member immediately.
 Comply with club safety rules and procedures at all times.
 Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions.
 Use equipment safely and as intended.

 Avoid acting recklessly or endangering others.

4. Risk Assessments
The club will carry out risk assessments for:
 All club waters and fisheries
 Events (matches, coaching sessions, work parties)
 Maintenance activities (e.g., peg repairs, vegetation clearance)
Control measures will be put in place to mitigate risks such as:
 Slips, trips, and falls on wet or uneven ground
 Water-related hazards (e.g., deep margins, unstable banks)
 Manual handling injuries
 Exposure to adverse weather
 Working with tools or machinery

5. Water Safety
 Anglers should not enter the water unless authorised and equipped to do so.
 Life jackets or buoyancy aids should be worn when working near deep or fast-moving
water, particularly during maintenance tasks.
 All juniors and vulnerable members must be supervised near the water at all times.
 Emergency contact information and procedures will be made available at each
venue.

6. First Aid & Emergency Procedures
 A basic First Aid Kit will be available at club events or accessible at designated
locations.
 Emergency services should be contacted immediately in the event of a serious injury
or incident: Call 999.
 The location of the nearest access point and postcode/grid reference should be
displayed on notice boards or in welcome packs.

7. Accidents and Incident Reporting
All accidents, injuries, or near misses must be reported to the Club Secretary or Health &
Safety Officer. The club will maintain an Incident Log and investigate significant incidents
to prevent recurrence.

8. Use of Tools and Machinery
 Only authorised members may use tools or machinery on behalf of the club (e.g.,
strimmers, mowers).
 Appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) must be worn.
 All equipment must be well-maintained and used in accordance with manufacturer
instructions.

9. Junior and Vulnerable Members
 Additional precautions will be taken during junior coaching sessions or when
vulnerable adults are present.
 Supervisors/coaches must be DBS-checked and follow the club’s Safeguarding
Policy.
 Consent and emergency contact details must be obtained from guardians for junior
participants.

10. Review and Communication
This policy will be:
 Reviewed annually or after any major incident.
 Communicated to all members through the website, notice boards, or member
handbooks.
 Updated as necessary in line with changes to legislation or club activities.

Policy Owner: Sam Day
Next Review Date: September 2030
Contact: Sam D – [email protected]

Last Updated: September 2025
1. Policy Statement
Weston Super Mare Angling Association is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting
the welfare of all its members, especially children and adults at risk. We believe that
everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual
orientation, or identity, has the right to enjoy angling in a safe and protective environment.
The welfare of children and adults at risk is paramount.

2. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to:
 All club members
 Club officers and committee members
 Coaches and volunteers
 Anyone working on behalf of or representing the club

3. Definitions
 Child: Anyone under the age of 18.
 Adult at Risk: A person aged 18 or over who is in need of care and support and is at
risk of abuse or neglect.
 Abuse: A violation of an individual’s human and civil rights by any other person or
persons. It can include physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse, as well as
neglect or exploitation.

4. Responsibilities
The Club Will:
 Appoint a Club Welfare Officer (CWO) to act as the first point of contact for any
safeguarding concerns.
 Ensure all volunteers working with juniors or adults at risk have appropriate DBS
checks and safeguarding training.
 Promote an open and inclusive environment that encourages respect and equality.
 Take all allegations or suspicions of abuse seriously and respond swiftly and
appropriately.

5. Code of Conduct

All members working with or around children and vulnerable adults must:
 Treat all individuals with respect and dignity.
 Always work in an open environment—avoid private or unobserved situations.
 Avoid unnecessary physical contact.
 Never engage in rough play or sexually suggestive comments or behaviour.
 Challenge unacceptable behaviour and report any concerns to the Club Welfare
Officer.

6. Recruitment & Training
 All staff and volunteers working with young people or vulnerable adults will undergo
appropriate DBS checks.
 The club will provide access to safeguarding training through national governing
bodies such as the Angling Trust.

7. Reporting Concerns
Any concerns about a child or adult at risk should be reported immediately to the Club
Welfare Officer (CWO).
If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services on 999.
Club Welfare Officer:
 Name: Michael Jones
 Email: Michael @ [email protected]

8. Confidentiality
All safeguarding concerns will be handled with appropriate confidentiality. Information will
only be shared on a need-to-know basis in line with data protection legislation and
safeguarding best practice.

9. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident, change in
legislation, or guidance from national governing bodies.

10. Supporting Organisations
 Angling Trust Safeguarding: https://anglingtrust.net
 NSPCC: 0808 800 5000
 Childline: 0800 1111

 Local Authority Safeguarding Board