I was just writing these few paragraphs for a page on the new website (hopefully you'll all enjoy browsing 15 months+ of hard labour - when it's finished!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!), but thought I may as well post it here in the meantime as well.

It's a not so fun snippet about a serious issue, but it needs to be placed somewhere.

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So, you've imported a rod from overseas, broken a section and want us to help....? Will we?!

In a word, 'no'. While we're all about the personal touch and helping customers to resolve any issues they have (even passers by who don't even want to buy anything), the one time that we will not put ourselves above and beyond is to assist people who have run the risk of importing products directly from overseas; and they should be aware that neither will the equivalent manufacturer's branch in the UK!

It is essential that you keep receipts (from us or any other UK retailer) to ensure that both we and the UK manufacturers branch will be willing to help. Items bought in the UK will come with a varying warranty period to cover the item against manufacturing faults and occasionally accidental damage (if they're feeling generous). If the item was not bought in the UK then it will be up to the owner to begin a long and potentially difficult process to either have the item fixed or replaced through contact with sellers overseas. Due to the cost of shipping items around the World (especially rods) this will rarely be worthwhile.

On the other hand, any items bought from us (even ones that aren't), we will always be happy to help sort your problems as quickly and efficiently as possible - as long as you have a UK receipt. Problems can sometimes be fixed in minutes rather than months/years and you'll be back to your fishing!

On a personal level, I don't mind whether you buy your kit from us (although it's nice), any of our competitors or even if you do decide to take the risk by buying abroad, but it is essential that people are aware of the above stance. I'm 100% certain that retailers nationwide would agree.

Think twice before importing... And keep your receipts!