It is interesting to read that Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Phil Willis (Della speaks out, The Press, April 21) thinks that "it would be a huge waste if Della Cannings just took up fishing" on her retirement.

What a derogatory statement to make about one of the country's major participant activities.

Considering her job and the stresses, etc, that it no doubt entailed, then the sport/hobby of fishing would be a most suitable course for her to follow, as it is eminently relaxing, given that it is a pursuit that can be followed as an individual, or with friends.

The opportunity to commune with nature, watching and appreciating the natural environment, and letting the stresses and strains of modern life leave your system would be a welcome change from the "daily grind".

It is an activity that can be followed throughout the year, with various aspects in the coarse, game and sea sections of the sport, and it must not be forgotten that with anglers on the banks most of the time, cases of pollution would be reported without delay, thus enabling remedial action to be taken by the authorities as a matter of urgency.

The angler is the protector of our watercourses, many of which would be open sewers without the vigilance of people following the sport. It is a sport/hobby that can be recommended to any person whether very young or up to their dotage.

An activity that anyone can enjoy should not be denigrated by those "in power".

Mr Willis should read the Labour Party's commitment to support fishing, its Charter for Angling.

As an ex-teacher, he should not be deriding the sport but, through the schools, encouraging today's youth to take it up, as it is often said that they "have nothing to do and nowhere to do it".

R Hutchinson, General secretary, York & District Amalgamation Of Anglers, St Clements Club, Count de Burgh Terrace, York.