Having spoken to Barrie Welham over the last couple of months, we were delighted when he came to stay with us for a couple of days. It was a great opportunity to discuss his career from Morritt's (Intrepid to many people) to becoming MD of Garcia Mitchell UK and how the company got established, then onto British Fly Reels, Leeda, and his role as Chairman of Orvis (UK). Although now retired, Barrie still has strong contacts with Orvis as their Sports' Ambassador.
Whilst he was with us, I couldn't resist the opportunity to seek his help in ironing out some of my fly casting flaws, something he has achieved for many others during his career.
Barrie's early inspiration was no less than Capt. Tommy Edwards, Hardy's fly casting instructor who became his mentor who took the young man under his wing and taught him well. This led Barrie into the International casting arena where he won many tournaments, often setting records with his casting skills.
During our discussions, it was fascinating to learn more about Tommy Edwards. My interest in him began when, just a couple of years ago, I purchased some of his rods from a local auction.
During Barrie's brief stay, Sandy and I managed to make a recording of much of this biographical information, which, if Barrie approves, we will make available through Angling Heritage in the near future. as we are sure many will find the discussions as enlightening as we did.
As a footnote, at Sandy's request, Barrie sent one of his signed fishing hats for inclusion in the growing 'National Fishing Hat Collection.' It has taken pride of place in our cabinet alongside others from angling legends such as Dick Walker, Fred J. Taylor MBE, Fred Buller MBE, Professor Barrie Rickards and Chris Yates. In a pinch from the movie 'Jaws' - 'we're gonna need a bigger (boat) cabinet!!!