Thirty-four anglers, two lakes and one brilliant cause. Our annual Fishathon returned to Crowsheath Fishery in Billericay in September, reeling in an impressive £25,000 for the Lighthouse Club, the charity dedicated to the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing of the construction community.

Across two nights under canvas, employees from MACL and MAP were joined by friends and family to create a festival-style atmosphere around the banks, thanks to the careful organised of Project Manager Steve Townley and Site Manager Ron ‘Rocket’ Sant. Saturday kicked off with a morale-boosting visit from Combat2Coffee, who kept everyone fuelled with tea and coffee before a relaxed family BBQ brought the wider community together.

Beyond the fun, the purpose was clear. The Lighthouse Club provides vital, confidential support to construction workers and their families during life’s toughest moments – from mental health crises to financial hardship.

With last year’s total of £23,195 already surpassed, this year’s Fishathon has again turned a passion for angling into meaningful, measurable impact. On the water, friendly rivalry was fierce, and the catches didn’t disappoint.

Top honours went to Shane Macefield, who landed the Biggest Fish at 29lb 12oz and also took home the Most Fish award.

Managing Director of MACL Steve Howe said: “The Fishathon has become a signature moment in our calendar – a chance to connect across departments, bring families into the fold and champion industry wellbeing in a tangible way. “Thanks to Steve Townley and Ron Sant for organising the event and to all the sponsors and supporters.”

A reel team effort – thank you to our supporters

Scott Parnell, Tru7, TMC Haulage, Keyline, Quattro, Brice, TL Paving, SRC Haulage, Danbury Haulage, Essex Waste, Brett Group, DAC Contracting, Tyrone Plant, Pattar Solutions, Howe Brickwork, M & H Testing, Adam Stringer, GM Briton, Laser Electrical, Holmes Plant, Dial A Jet, FP McCann, D & B Scaffolding, A1 Drain Solutions, Hanson, Lemon Reinforcement, CMT, RMS, Wavin, CFF, Dunmow Waste, JM Clarke, JJ Sugrue, Gemco, HB Tunnelling, Paul Warner, Sheppard Piling, LJM Civil Engineering, Capital Construction, SAC Groundwork, GRS Roadstone, The Duggan Family.

Additional raffle prizes: Angling Direct, JD Pipes, Stanstead Angling.