Except that John Carver having seen this very rod said ".... the crud and grim on the butt and handle gone and there just above the handle somewhat faded but clear enough were the words "B James MK 1V Avon" viewtopic.php?f=192&t=21063&p=322772#p322772Beresford wrote: ↑Sat Aug 19, 2017 4:10 pm
I think there is a very simple explanation. I believe that Yates owned more than one MkIV Avon and his own writing would confirm that in my view. The first one he bought and first used as a teenager was a B. James rod. (Image(s) of this rod are in Casting at the Sun.) The rod that was used to catch the record was indeed Walker built and a later acquisition. He may also have had others for all we know.
It is the Walker built rod that he used to catch the Bishop and it is this rod that is for sale in September.
Presumably there is no sign of the B James words on the auction item.
I haven't got a clue what the explanation is.