The Royal Mail Trout Club was founded in 1996 by 10 postmen who decided to hold eight monthly fly and worm competitions, at Fontburn Reservoir. Within a couple of years the club's membership increased. The last six years have seen major changes with sponsorship from Gateshead fishing tackle shop, Frasers Angling & Outdoors and also Northumbrian Water, who donate permits for the top three anglers for each Northumbrian Water venue. The club's Paul Crabtree said: "Because the club's main sponsor is Frasers Angling & Outdoors, the league was renamed the Frasers Challenge League, instead of the Royal Mail Trout League. We have also an agreement with Rob Tait of Sweethope Loughs that a free days fishing permit for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place will be given."

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First published in the Evening Chronicle/Gateshead Post March 19, 2003