Thugs will face backlash (From Lancaster And Morecambe Citizen)

Thugs will face backlash

9:26am Wednesday 30th August 2006

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A NURSE who was attacked by animal rights activists while fishing has been overwhelmed' by the support she has received.

The story of how Lucy Belson, a nurse at Westmor-land General Hospital in Kendal, had her rod smashed by a gang of 30 people wielding baseball bats while she was fishing. shot her to fame when it appeared in a number of newspapers.

The incident occurred at Bank House Fly Fishery, in Caton, where the gang was allegedly responsible for assaulting fishermen and vandalising cars.

Now Ms Belson says: "The amount of support I have had has been amazing. I have had a lot of phone calls and everyone has been great.

"I think we have seen a backlash in what they have done and they have really shot themselves in the foot. The messages of support I have received show that people will not be frightened and intimidated by the cowardly actions of a bunch of thugs."

Fly Fishery owner Jan Dobson says she has since heard that one of the anglers who was attacked was stabbed with a hypodermic needle.

"He didn't realise until the next day when he woke up with marks on his arms. He went to the hospital and was told the marks were consistent with syringe punctures. I understand he is currently waiting for test results, which is absolutely horrific," says Mrs Dobson.

"Everyone said that when shooting was banned they would turn their attention to fishing but I would say to people don't be frightened. Avoid one-to-one confront-ation but don't be afraid to stand up and say what you believe in.

She adds: "It is outrageous that they think they can rule our lives in such an intimidatory way. They have the right to their opinion but no one has the right to attack a law abiding person."

Chief Insp Julian Platt of Lancashire Police says the incident is still being investigated.

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