Tunbridge Wells Rods

[The Mudway Dangler]

Thanks to fellow member Reedling, I have been made aware of these locally made rods and will make it a priority to source one. Perhaps other members may have some information as to the history of the company? I want a float rod, hopefully about 12' or so. If anyone wants to part with one, please let me know.
Paul

[RBTraditional]

These do quite often come up on eBay, so well worth keeping a look out Paul

[Wallys-Cast]

They are generally very good quality cane and used quality fittings identical to those used on the better Allcocks rods of the day.


Wal.

[The Mudway Dangler]

Success, I'm the new proud owner of a 10' 6" rod made by Tunbridge Wells Rods Ltd. To make my joy even greater, I parted with just £2.20 and had a friend pick it up in St Neots whilst visiting his mother. I've since learned that these rods were made in Camden Road, although I'm uncertain of the exact location as yet. On examination, it looks identical to that posted by Zipper a while back.

[Reedling]

What a result.. absolutely smashing.

[RBTraditional]

Great news, well done! Be interesting to find out where the rod makers were in Camden Road and indeed whether the well know Tunbridge Wells rod maker Fred King was connected in some way.

[Coral Maestro]

Here are a couple of rods manufactured by Tunbridge Wells Rods Ltd:

The Birling Deluxe 11ft





The top section is fibreglass and the colour match to cane is pretty good.

An un-named TWRL rod 10 1/2ft





The pattern on the cane is going to be a challenge to copy (which is why the resto is on hold!).
I had a look online to see if I could find out anything about this company but was unsuccessful. Anyone have any info?

And here is another rod manufacturer that was based in Tunbridge Wells, Richardson & Coker:





I rescued the somewhat tired label during the restoration (it came detached from the rod). It reads "Richardson & Coker, Tunbridge Wells".
I found a reference to this company made by the London gazette:



When I lived in Crowborough (about 7 miles from T.Wells) I remember a tackle shop called George Coker's but I'm not sure now if it was in T.Wells or Crowborough. Anyone else know?