Cambridge United Stadium Manager supports Charities in ‘Big Fish’

In September 2025, Cambridge United Stadium Manager, Ian Darler took part in the ‘Big Fish’ charity challenge which raised more than £13,000 for six local charities including Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

The ‘Big Fish Off’ event took place at Fraser’s Fishery, in Little Downham, near Ely, with the aim of catching 220lbs in 12 hours. He ended up beating his target by an amazing 154lb and raised more than £13,100 for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, EACH, Cambridge United Foundation, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire Mind, Woodgreen Pets Charity and Little Buds.

Ian commented:

“I’d like to thank every single person and company that donated to this challenge as my initial target had been to raise £6,000. I know every pound really does count for these charities so felt under pressure to do my very best. As the fish went on the scales, I realised we’d beat the target of 220lbs with a final weight of 373lbs 8oz. It definitely exceeded my expectations!

Special thanks go to Kevin Johnson, of CB Groundworks & Construction Ltd, who, for the second year, put the challenge forward, with support from the Cambridge United Foundation. It really was a team effort with staff at the football club, numerous media platforms and radio stations doing their bit to support and publicise the event for six amazing charities.”

Ian was delighted to support all six charities. After hearing the Charity’s devastating news about funding cuts, he organised a secondary fishing event and raised an additional £800 exclusively for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

Sarah Clayton, Community Fundraiser at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity said:

“We are so grateful to Ian for thinking of us during both of his fishing events. It is good to see how his Charity work in the Community was recognised when he was awarded a British Empire Medal in the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours for his services to Cambridge United and his work with the Cambridge Charity Fundraisers!”

On Saturday 1 November, Ian presented cheques to the six charities at Cambridge United’s ground at The Cledara Abbey Stadium on Newmarket Road in Cambridge, at half time during the match against Chester FC for the 1st round of the FA Cup.

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If you’re thinking of taking on your own personal challenge to raise money for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at: challenges@arhc.org.uk