CLARISSA CARP - A unique opportunity to obtain arguably the most important preserved specimen carp, 'Clarrisa', caught by renowned angler and author Richard Walker. Caught in 1952 at Bernithan Pool (Redmire), Herefordshire, September 12th, weighing at the time a record 44lbs. The fish is mounted in a glazed bow fronted case, with gilt writing and border, set in a naturalistic reed and gravel setting, and restored in 2011 by Barry Williams, Cannock. This extremely important example promoted the modern day Carp angling movement. Five known cast replica copies were produced by Williams, with this being the original unique specimen. Measures 43x22x8.5" approx. The capture of Clarissa the record breaking 44lb carp in 1952 propelled Richard Walker into the record books and carp fishing royalty for life. The formation of the Carp Catchers Club by RW, Maurice Ingham and Denys Watkins-Pitchford (BB) with three others was created for the study of carp, their habits and behaviour, the end game to catch larger fish more often. Walker believed a 40lb carp could exist in British waters but was ridiculed by both anglers and the press. Bob Richards caught a record carp of 31lb 4oz in October 1951 from Bernithan, a small lake near Ross on Wye. He was immediately inducted into the Carp Catchers Club. Secrecy was top of the agenda, so the pool had to be renamed. BB suggested 'Redmire', a name that was to become carp-fishing folklore and the holy grail of carp fishers. Walker caught the fish on a 10' two piece split cane rod he made in his garden shed. This was to the first rod specifically designed and built for carp fishing which he fitted with a Mitchell fixed spool reel. The famous Richard Walker Mk4 (three previous versions were part of the development) was born and has become the cult rod for any carp traditionalist. On that day in 1952 Walker fished with 'Green Butterfly' plaited nylon 12lb line and an Allcock's 'Model Perfect' taper shank hook, whipped direct to the line, no float, knots or lead. The bait being a home-made mix of paste and bread crust creating a balanced bait. Post capture RW phoned London Zoo from Bernithan Court and after a lengthy conversation a driver was sent to Redmire to collect the fish. Upon arrival at the Zoo, Clarissa was weighed at exactly 44lb on three sets of scales and witnessed by Ken Sutton. This record stood for 27 years!