Neil Farnworth founded CAST North West in 2006. He is a Level 2 Angling Coach with the Angling Trust.
Before setting up the charity, Neil worked in the motor industry for 15 years as a qualified mechanic. His love of the outdoors led him to change direction and become roofer working up to contracts manager, where he also supported and trained apprentices.
Neil later became involved in Restorative Justice Panels in the community. During this work, he met young people who were interested in fishing but lacked equipment and a safe place to take part. Seeing the difference angling could make, Neil created CAST North West to help young people learn, grow, and re-engage with education through fishing. The Charity changed its name in 2016 to AppleCast.
Over the past decade, Neil has led the growth and development of AppleCast.
This includes creating a new Fisheries Management qualification with Open Awards and overseeing two major site moves as the charity has expanded. Today, the Charity acts as a vibrant community hub and is planning further expansion.
