A highly respected and much-loved fishery boss that was the brains behind one of the biggest commercials in the land has passed away.
Mike Hamlington has been at the helm of Warwickshire’s Tunnel Barn Farm since it first opened over 20 years ago, taking it from a single pool with local attraction to a nine-lake mega complex that has a nationwide reputation.
Tens of thousands of match and pleasure anglers visit on an annual basis, with all that met Mike gaining a warm reception that helped him gain such a glowing reputation.
A statement on the fishery’s Facebook page said: “It is with a heavy heart, here at Tunnel, that this morning we need to let you all know of the passing of the man that was Tunnel Barn, Mike Hamlington. His passing was extremely unexpected, after a short illness. Mike made a huge contribution to not only Tunnel, but also the angling community as a whole over the last 40 years and will be sadly missed.”
Hundreds of tributes have already been posted on social media, with several of the sport’s biggest stars showing their shock and sadness at Mike’s passing.
Four times World Champion Bob Nudd wrote: ‘Sad, sad news, RIP Mike’, while Guru-backed angler Ben Hagg said: ‘Incredibly sad, one of the nicest men you could wish to meet.’
Anglers are being given the opportunity to share their memories of Mike via Tunnel Barn Farm’s Facebook page or by emailing admin@tbftackle.com
