ONCE a flourishing and important industry in Chepstow and Beachley, salmon fishing is now, sadly, almost consigned to history – only the Black Rock boys carry on the tradition of lave netting, though in a much restricted way.

I am researching the history of salmon fishing in Beachley bay and particularly the two ranks of putchers – The Salmon and Lyde Rock – which once operated there. I am also seeking as much information as possible on the stopping boats which were once such a feature there.

Many local families were involved in the industry and I am hoping ancestors may have memories or records, perhaps even photographs of the men who made a living at one of the district's oldest occupations.

The information is to be published in a book on the history of salmon fishing due out next year. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

– John Powell, secretary, Severn Estuary Netsmen's Association, Greenacres, Riverside Lane, Broadoak, Newnham GL14 1Je (tel 01594 516916; email [email protected]&quot">[email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected]&quot">[email protected]">[email protected]">[email protected])