Angler dies after youths seen ‘throwing stones’ at boat

Police appeal over death of man in his 60s at medieval castle lake after ‘altercation’ with group on the shore

AN ANGLER who died while fishing on a lake at a medieval castle in Kent may have been involved in an altercation with some youths, police have said.

The man, who was in his 60s, was in a boat with two other anglers on a lake at Lullingstone Castle when the incident occurred on Thursday.

Witnesses suggested the men had clashed with a group of youths on the shore and there were claims that stones had been thrown at the boat.

The man, who was named by fellow anglers last night as Charles Hilder, was pronounced dead at the scene but it is not clear whether he was struck or subsequently became ill. The death has shocked the village of Eynsford between Sevenoaks and Dartford.

Detectives from the Kent and Essex serious crime directorate are appealing for information as they investigate the circumstances around the death.

Kent Police said officers and paramedics were called to a disturbance at Lullingstone Castle at 5.21pm. It is understood the man who died was a member of the Kingfisher Angling and Preservation Society and had spent the morning helping to stock the 14-acre lake with rainbow trout.

Mick Lee, chairman of the society, wrote posted on its website that members were “shocked and greatly saddened” to hear of Mr Hilder’s death.

“Although the exact circumstances surrounding Charlie’s death are unclear we believe that he died after a confrontation with poachers. At this stage we would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Charlie’s family and friends.”

A member of the club said: “He was a very nice, very kind man. It’s absolutely tragic – and it was in such a beautiful, tranquil area. Everybody is shocked.”

Members pay £400 a year to fish at the lake and most of the angling is done by boat. On its website, the society warns: “Poaching activity on the River

Darent continues to be an issue and members are reminded of the recommended course of action.

“It is very important that you report all poaching incidents that you witness. Do not approach the poacher. Call the police immediately.”

Residents of the area said there had been an increase in anti-social behaviour, with Laura Trott, the local MP, saying she had flagged up the issue with the police.