Angling Direct founder to ‘champion’ angling community in new role

The co-founder of what has become the largest fishing tackle retailer in the UK has taken on a new ambassadorial role within the group.

Martyn Page will step down as Non-executive Director of Angling Direct at the end of January next year and take up a newly created position of Founder President.

In an announcement to the London Stock Exchange earlier this week, the group, which has over 50 stores in the UK, said: “Having founded and been heavily involved in our growth and success over the past  25 years, this new role will allow  Martyn to continue to engage with and champion both Angling Direct and the wider fishing community.”

Andy Torrance, Non-Executive Chairman of Angling Direct  said: “I am delighted that Martyn has agreed to remain involved with Angling Direct when he steps down from the Board at the end of this financial year. This company would not be where it is today if it wasn’t for Martyn’s hard work and dedication and, on behalf of the Board and everyone at Angling Direct, I would like to thank him for everything that he has done for both the business and the wider angling community.

“I would also like to add my personal thanks to Martyn for his guidance, mentorship and support throughout my time as Chief Executive and Chair of Angling Direct.”

Page said:“I started selling fishing tackle over 40 years ago and I look back with great pride as Angling Direct progresses its journey towards £100m annual turnover. I feel that the end of this financial year will be a good time for me to step down as a director of the Company and take on a new ambassadorial role as Founder President.

“In this new role, I will focus on maintaining and promoting the company’s strong founding beliefs, its purpose and outstanding culture. I will continue to focus on the whole angling community and will champion our work to help improve our fisheries and environment, while ensuring Angling Direct continues to help get everyone fishing successfully.”