Fishing News Awards shortlist
Technical Innovation of the Year
Award Sponsor: Box Pool Solutions Ltd
| Lobster Pod | Innovative live shellfish storage and transport system |
| Lobster Pod is an innovative live shellfish storage and transportation system. The co-inventors have listened to the creelers and merchants, and designed a system that can improve the survival rate and, most importantly, the quality of shellfish from catch to plate.
The Lobster Pod can be used onboard, as a long-term shellfish tank and/or for vivier transport. The unique controlled atmosphere system ensures the system can use mist, spray or be flooded to suit each application. As a transport system it is lighter than a standard vivier, saving fuel and carbon emissions, and can carry an extra 15% of stock by utilising the full cubic capacity. The Lobster Pod vivier uses one-tenth of the amount of water to transport lobsters and the water is filtered. The filters have been designed by the team to be energy-efficient and are simple to operate. By using customised fish boxes, manual handling is easier, and the whole system is palletised, saving time when loading, and it is a safer method of moving live shellfish. The palletised pods can be re-used and mean no dedicated vehicle is required for shellfish delivery, while the enclosed system will do much less damage to your refrigeration unit. The storage system enables up to 200kg of stock to be held in a cubic metre of floor space, meaning less space is needed for the lobster tank, which is especially important in prime harbour land. The founders Keith and Errin are really knowledgeable and design their systems with both the needs of the shellfish and the working practices of the industry to make it easy to use. The system is manufactured in the UK. |
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| Quiksling | Innovative MOB recovery system |
| QUIKSLING is a product that looks so simple it is impossible at first glance to grasp its sophistication and the sheer life-saving capability it delivers.
The brainchild of a Pilot Boat coxswain, following experience of a multi MOB recovery at sea, this easy-to-use device has generated huge interest from all parts of the UK and beyond. Very fast capture of an immersed person is everything, according to its inventor George West, who has come up with an ingenious way of snapping a chest sling snugly under the armpits of a remote casualty by jerking a rescue line. By designing QUIKSLING’s floating frame to be the sinking part of two hoisting slings, George has found the function to deliver a comfortable ‘deckchair’ lift. This is one of the safest postures for MOB recovery to avoid cardiac problems and is recommended in a new SOLAS regulation which requires ‘ship-specific plans and procedures to be in place for the recovery of persons from the water’, which non- SOLAS fishing vessels may have to equally observe, as guidance. |
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| Square beam trawl | Totally new concept of square beam trawl incorporating rollerball ground gear to give reduced seabed impact and increase catch selectivity |
| An innovative new design of beam trawl featuring with a square bosom lying horizontal to the towing direction instead of the traditional curved bosom. The idea of the square bosom is to increase the fishing area of the gear, while aiming to reduce the overall impact of the gear on the seabed and reducing drag to allow the trawls to be towed with lower fuel consumption – all without losing target species.
Initial catch returns, compared to those from a conventional beam trawl towed at the same time, were highly encouraging, with significant increases in fishing efficiency, ease of towing, reduced fuel consumption and bottom impact. The square beam trawl is just one of a large number of highly selective gear initiatives which UK fishermen continue to pioneer and fine-tune as part of their commitment to long-term sustainability. |
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Safety Award of the Year
Award Sponsor: Sunderland Marine
| NFFO: Robert Greenwood Fishing safety officer |
| Robert Greenwood, the Safety and Training Officer at the NFFO, devotes the majority of his time to helping fishermen make their trips to sea safer. In 2012, Robert founded safetyfolder.co.uk, an online information portal and electronic record of all the safety measures fishermen must comply with.
Robert worked with Seafish to raise awareness of the site, and it is now incorporated into the Safety Awareness Course that all fishermen must take after two years in the industry. The website serves several functions, including: Easy compliance • Designed to help fishing vessels comply with UK and European Maritime laws by referencing the relevant MCA M Notices and European Directives, making it much easier for fishermen to comply with fishing safety laws. Monthly and annual reminders • Monthly emails to fishermen reminding them of the routine tasks that should be completed on-board eg equipment service reminders and expiration dates. Properly serviced and maintained equipment can save lives. Statistics Safety Folder statistics show that the site has facilitated easy compliance with the regulations. Since its inception figures show: • More than 9,000 risk assessments have been conducted and logged • Over 1,000 crew members are listed, along with all their necessary documentation • Almost 4,500 pieces of equipment are registered, all of which are eligible for the monthly reminder emails • 419 vessels registered (7.5% of the UK fleet), and an increase from 264 vessels a year ago (4.5% of the UK fleet). • 26.6% of all vessels over 24m are signed up • 22.4% of all vessels 15m to 24m are signed up Star ratings • Stars are attained after a number of tasks have been completed. This ensures that fishermen will have grasped the concept by the time they attain the star. More importantly, after users have completed the necessary 10 risk assessments to achieve the star, the vast majority go on to complete many more, showing the training works and the site’s function as an online record of all safety documentation is working. Robert’s commitment to safety also extends to his work with the NFFO as its Safety Training Officer, where he runs training courses and provides safety advice for its members. Through this, and the management of Safety Folder, Robert is especially committed to improving the safety of British and Irish fishermen. |
| Seafish: Sea You Home Safe campaign |
| Sea You Home Safe is a communications campaign developed by Seafish, alongside their PR agency Citypress, to encourage more fishermen to wear PFDs. It was launched in March 2014 and the campaign is still running. Fishing is the most dangerous peacetime occupation in the UK and 94 commercial fishermen have lost their lives in the past 10 years. Seafish is involved in an initiative to give every commercial fisherman in the UK a free PFD, however the majority of fishermen choose not to wear them.
Working with Citypress, Seafish created an integrated campaign to prompt behavioural change that increases the use of PFDs among commercial fishermen, and an awareness of the difficulties associated with an unrecovered body and the impact on families. Seafish is committed to championing better practice and its strategy is driven by the results of a survey of 100 commercial UK fishermen in early 2014, and a follow-up survey in February 2015, to monitor attitude changes. Strategy points • Emotive, real-life stories were used to highlight the impact on grieving families, and influential voices lent support to the campaign. Monty Halls gives the campaign a well-known face that fishermen could relate to • Case studies of fishermen who have been saved and families who lost relatives were developed to provide media with the real-life stories. One of the films can be viewed on YouTube and has been watched more than 2,000 times • Peterhead FC and the Cornish Pirates were enlisted to take part in a training session wearing PFDs to show fishermen how lightweight and easy to wear the new style PFDs are • A Facebook page and local media coverage were arranged to let fishermen know about PFD giveaway events in their local area. The Facebook page has over 2,000 likes. Positive figures • 116 pieces of coverage across newspapers, websites and television, with a reach of 117m • Since the campaign launched, more than 600 fishermen have contacted Seafish to register for a free PFD • Repeat research in February 2015 showed that the number of commercial fishermen who wear a PFD every time they go to sea is now 37% – up by 11% from 12 months earlier • Seafish knows of at least five lives saved by wearing the free PFDs, although it suspects there are more stories out there |
| RNLI: Fishing Safety Team |
| Co-ordinator Frankie Horne and the RNLI Fishing safety team do a superb and vastly underrated job in underlining the importance of PFDs and personal safety at sea. In addition to meeting individual skippers and crews all over the UK, the team regularly carries out training sessions with new entrants to the industry. |
Coastal Fish Restaurant of the Year
Award Sponsor: Coast Magazine
| Cafe Fish | Tobermory Scotland |
| This fantastic seafood restaurant, owned and run by cousins Jane McDonald and Liz McGougan, was chosen because of its spectacular views, and fresh, sustainable food with great flavour. Open for its 12th season, the restaurant has its own fishing boat to deliver daily lobster and langoustines, with local boats supplying other seafood. It also stocks a wide range of Isle of Mull beers, cheeses and more. | |
| HIX Oyster and Fish House | Lyme Regis Dorset |
| This restaurant, owned by celebrated chef Mark Hix, was picked for its outstanding seafood cuisine and locally-sourced produce. Set in Mark’s native county, Dorset, the restaurant boasts great views across the Jurassic coast and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu changes daily, serving up high-quality seafood, often from boats that operate from the harbour it overlooks. | |
| Kishorn Seafood Bar | Wester Ross Scotland |
| Set in stunning Highland surroundings, this seafood restaurant was chosen for its wonderful dishes that are simply prepared to enhance natural flavours. The seafood is caught locally, using sustainable, low-impact methods wherever possible. Celebrating 20 years of business, Kishorn is popular with locals and tourists alike. The menu includes oysters, mussels, prawns, scallops, crabs, squats and lobster. | |
| Longsands Fish Kitchen | Tynemouth North Shields |
| Longsands Fish Kitchen was selected for its tasty, sustainable fish, cooked fresh to order. The restaurant serves Shetland mussels, grilled lobster, shucked oysters, monkfish and prawn curry, roast turbot and classic fish and chips. The menu changes daily dependent on the daily catch by the local fisherman, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to sustainability. | |
| Magpie Cafe | Whitby North Yorkshire |
| This seafood restaurant, well known in its region, was chosen for its use of sustainable, fresh, local fish and seafood and its traditional ambience. The Magpie Café, housed in a striking black-and-white building overlooking the harbour, supports the local fishing community and economy. It has a long connection with fishing and the shipping industry. | Port Isaac Cornwall |
| Outlaws Fish Kitchen | |
| Outlaws was picked for its delicious, original seafood dishes and support of sustainable methods. The restaurant buys fresh fish and shellfish from local inshore dayboats that are certified by the Responsible Fishing Scheme. The fishermen work using low-impact fishing methods that preserve the marine environment. | |
| River Exe Cafe | Exmouth Devon |
| This distinctive restaurant is set on a custom-built floating barge. Fresh seafood is bought from local fishermen and suppliers, with mussels gathered from right under their feet. Many of the fishermen who supply the restaurant can be seen at work as they pass the café. Weekly specials reflect the daily catch. | |
| Rockfish | Various Devon |
| Run by best friends and renowned chefs, Mitch Tonks and Mat Prowse, this family restaurant was chosen for its integral commitment to sustainability. They work with fishermen to understand the constant challenges of fisheries and have a 2-star rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association. Their fantastic seafood dishes are expertly cooked and beautifully presented. The first Rockfish restaurant opened in Dartmouth in 2010 and more followed in seaside towns where fishing is a key part of daily life. | |
| The Old Boathouse | Amble Northumberland |
| With its picturesque harbour setting, this restaurant was included for its fine seafood and fish selection bought directly from local fishing boats. Highly skilled chefs conjure up an impressive menu of both classic and experimental dishes. Customers enjoy the friendly, relaxed atmosphere and the great views. | |
| The Salt Room | Brighton Sussex |
| Opened in February 2015, this new restaurant situated on Brighton’s seafront has had a major impact on the Brighton food scene. It champions sustainable, local food, and creates unique recipes that have given the restaurant an outstanding reputation for quality. The slick, modern interiors and stylish cocktail menu have helped to introduce a new, young crowd to British seafood and fish. | |
Pelagic Fisherman of the Year
| Lowrie Irvine | Antares LK 419 |
| Lowrie Irvine has shown immense commitment to the fishing industry, starting on the Zephyr with his father and bringing the first Antares to Shetland in 1975. This was followed by the second Antares, in 1978, which included a shelter deck and was the first vessel in Shetland to have RSW tanks for holding the catch, which would give much better quality to the end product. Over the years Lowrie has led his fellow shareholders and crew in keeping up with the ever-changing demands of the industry by investing in new vessels with up-to-date, state-of-the-art technology in fish-finding and catch-handling. At the age of 70 there is a new (5th) Antares on the way to join the Shetland Fleet and Lowrie will be at the helm – we hope for many more years to come.
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| George William Anderson | Adenia LK 193 |
| George has shown immense commitment to the fishing industry since the first (second-hand) Adenia came to join the Whalsay fleet in 1980. During 1986 they inserted a large section amidships giving a new lease of life to the vessel which had been built in France in 1975. In 1993 there was further investment when the Adenia Fishing Company bought the 187 ft Petur Johnsson from Iceland and renamed her Adenia II. The current Adenia hull was built in Turkey and designed to be able to accommodate an additional middle section, she was completed in Norway and began fishing in 2004. During 2015 she was lengthened to 70.4m in Gdansk, Poland to improve stability and enhance fuel efficiency as well as the quality of fish landed. Also at this time the configuration of the fish handling system was altered so that fish are pumped aboard from the stern instead of over the side.
A dedicated family man, George’s three sons are among the 11-strong crew who are all well qualified to run and manage Adenia. Active in the local community and always trying to keep Shetland and the fishing industry as a priority, George is a Trustee of NAFC Marine Centre in Scalloway as well as a member of the Board of Lerwick Port Authority. Friendly and outgoing he is always pleased to help when possible and the boat has welcomed a vast range of visitors over the years from all walks of life. They are willing participators in many marine projects and have hosted scientists, observers and students during fishing trips. George is a fantastic ambassador for training, development and the pelagic industry in Shetland we feel he is very worthy for consideration of this award. |
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| William Whyte | Forever Grateful FR 249 |
| William is due recognition for his commitment to the sector, which he has shown by recently ordering a new vessel which will be at the cutting edge for product quality. This is due to some of his forward-thinking ideas, as previously featured in Fishing News. For example, rigging the vessel for stern pumping with the new larger-sized pumps will put the catch into the chilled tanks faster and more efficiently, and will also enhance the crew’s safety.
Keeping the vessel to under-80m will also enable him to have a faster turnaround time if landing in Norway, as the vessel is under their size requirement for a pilot. In addition to the above points, William is also instrumental in organising the recycling of old nylon trawls, which he collects from various ports and then, with his father, he strips any chains and wires from the nets. The nets are then sent for recycling and any money is distributed to local charities. Not only the charities benefiting but their actions are helping to reduce pollution as the old nets used to be disposed of by burning. To date I believe that they have recycled over 50t of netting – not an insignificant amount. |
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Demersal Fisherman of the Year
Award Sponsor: Peterhead Port Authority
| Andrew Bremner | Skipper Boy Andrew WK 170 |
| For over 30 years Andrew Bremner has been a top seine skipper. In the past year he has shown his confidence in the future of fishing and his commitment to passing on his lifetime’s knowledge of fishing by ordering a new vessel. | |
| John Clark | Skipper Reliance II BF 800 |
| A profitable fisherman who projects an excellent image of the industry to the outside by keeping his vessel in good condition. More importantly, however, he passionately promotes the industry and his product online via social media; both the vessel’s own page and other industry pages. He puts forward an accurate portrayal of a small family business in an industry often blighted by an image of corporate greed by its detractors. John is willing to answer questions from those outside the fleet and say what needs to be said in the industry. There needs to be more like him. | |
| James Locker | Skipper Our Lass III WY 261 |
| James Locker first went to sea at the age of eight, in 1988. In 2000 he qualified as the youngest Class II skipper in the UK at South Tyneside College. Later the same year he skippered Our Lass I.
• In 2006 he won Fishing News Young Fisherman Of The Year • In 2007 he skippered Our Lass II and broke many landing records • In 2014 he took the latest Lockers Trawlers Ltd vessel Our Lass III, and has continued to successfully innovate efficient fishing methods with his pair-trawl partner, Guiding Star James has always been passionate about fishing and always totally committed to travelling regularly between his home in Whitby and Peterhead,where his vessel is based. His loyal crew consists of mainly Whitby men and Filipinos. Berths rarely occur, but they are much sought after when they do. His commands are also always renowned for their excellent Health and Safety compliance, as well as their immaculately-kept condition. James appreciates that training is a very important aspect of the job and has helped to finance and support two young crewmen in order for them to obtain their Class II Skipper’s Certificates in recent years. James has been a keen participant in the NS Cod FDF scheme since its inception to the present day. Much of his time was spent in London with Rodney Anderson and Lindsay Harris of DEFRA, giving practical advice on the adoption of technical measures. He also assisted CEFAS on square mesh panel construction and location, to aid juvenile cod escape. The successful switch to pair-seining with Our Lass III was calculated by him to exploit the abundant haddock stocks rather than the wider variety of species that were caught in the single trawl of his previous vessels. The considerable savings in fuel cost were also a factor in this decision. James is a quiet and thoughtful young man – well respected and liked within the UK industry. He is an excellent role model for the latest generation of young fishermen. I think that he is well worthy of the accolade Demersal Fisherman of the Year. |
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Shellfisherman of the Year
Award Sponsor: Gael Force
| John Affleck | Skipper Soph Ash Jay LH 60 |
| John is extremely committed to the industry, pioneering in boat and gear development; building new boats and reinvesting in industry committing his business to the long-term, from his boats to his gear and his men. Every aspect of his operation is thoroughly professional, from the way he maintains and looks after his boats, gear and men, from safety at sea to the working environment ashore. He’s forward-thinking in every aspect of the industry and fully deserving of this award. | |
| Ashley Blakebrough | Crewman Onward Star SH 165 |
| Ashley is dedicated to the work he does. He is 29 and has been a fisherman for 15 years, and is also longest-serving crewman aboard the vessel. He wouldn’t do any other job, and can actually say he loves the line of work he’s in, whatever the conditions. | |
| John Poll | Skipper John Willy LN 465 |
| John Poll is constantly changing to the demands of the fishing industry. This skipper has always been known for his knowledge in the shellfish industry, which he has been involved with since he was a teenager. This fisherman had always found the right spots for fishing shellfish due to his knowledge of the industry. John has always been hard-working and always caught good produce for Lynn shellfish. He had been fishing for over 30 years and has always been devoted to his job as a fisherman. He is ambitious and always trying to help the industry, which is why he should be Shellfish Fisherman of the Year. John shows enthusiasm for the industry, and encourages the younger generation to succeed. He is a hard-working skipper who looks after his vessel, continually trying to support the industry through changes. | |
Fish Processor of the Year
Award Sponsor: Seafish
| Dawnfresh Seafoods Ltd Uddingston | |
| Dawnfresh is one of the UK’S largest producers of fish and seafood. Based in Scotland, and producing for food service and retail, both in the UK and around the world, it uses its own farmed trout and also works with the fishing industry to process many other species, including salmon, mackerel, haddock, langoustine and prawns.
Services • A number of specialised production facilities handling fresh, marinated, smoked and other value added lines • A complete range of services, from basic fish processing and supply through to the full product development cycle; from identifying opportunities to delivering the finished product • Dawnfresh has also grown a significant export business, supplying wholesale and retail customers in the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and Japan People • This knowledge and passion, coupled with our innovative New Product Development team and industry-leading standards, make us the perfect business partner. Everything we do as a business is underpinned by our Values; Respect, Integrity, Trust and Excellence, which were highlighted by our own employees as the core values that everyone in Dawnfresh should work toward • The Dawnfresh People Plan is based on having the right people, with the right skills, in the right place, at the right time. Business • As a business, we actively engage with local schools, colleges and universities to promote careers in fish and seafood • One in five young people in Scotland is currently unemployed. For Dawnfresh, creating high quality, sustainable employment, supporting our local economy, and improving quality of life is a real passion • We partner with Skills Development Scotland, Scotland Food and Drink and New College Lanarkshire, to deliver the Tasty Jobs youth employability programme. Combining college-based learning with structured work experience at Dawnfresh, the participants earn an SQA accredited Certificate of Work Readiness while developing the skills needed to move into work. We are absolutely delighted to have offered seven participants Modern Apprenticeships at the end of the programmes, with others moving into full time education • Recently nominated for the Best Youth Investment Award by Business Insider Awards. Attracting, developing and retaining young talent is key to delivering the Dawnfresh People plan. As a growing business, in a sector with an ageing workforce and acknowledged skill gaps, growing our own talent and creating rewarding, sustainable careers is a fundamental driver of our business success • Young talent at Dawnfresh brings fresh thinking, innovative ideas, and a drive for continuous improvement. By attracting and developing young talent across all functions, and at various levels, Dawnfresh creates the capacity to fill key roles internally. By engaging with schools, colleges, universities and employability organisations, Dawnfresh has developed an attractive employer brand and established itself as an employer of choice Innovation • As a result of an adventurous and creative product designed for M&S, the site in Uddingston has been the beneficiary of quarter of a million pounds investment in a new area of the factory. The new product is a first to market salmon pate in the shape of a sphere, covered with lemon gel and silver, all served in a half scallop shell with samphire as a garnish. The time and effort to come up with a product and bring it to market with one of UK’s leading retailers has been a triumph and the business has grown in confidence for a bright future in this area • The focus on hand-finished fish products is a fantastic new drive for the area and new skills are being created and utilised daily. The whole business played a role in making this product a success; from NPD to procurement, engineering to production, finance to health and safety. Rarely does a challenge of such magnitude draw people together, but in this case a closer team with stronger bonds has been one of the most satisfying results • Innovative products are also at the centre of the continued drive towards hand-made and finished products. A challenge to plait salmon resulted in another signature M&S Christmas product. Salmon is cut into strips and plaited to create an eye-catching and glorious centrepiece to add to any Christmas table Growth The Dawnfresh site in Arbroath has also enjoyed growth as a direct result of keen and focused innovation. • A project to extend the factory is almost complete which have been driven by products such as: beetroot-cured smoked salmon with a touch of orange, bronzed treacle salmon, maple and thyme salmon tranche, pea and mint smoked salmon blinis, and a whole side of salmon topped with caramelised oranges to look like scales. Marketing and Promotion • Analysis of information from a broad variety of sources to create broad understanding of the fish category, the fish shopper and the fish consumer. We monitor trends, both in fish and outside the category in the wider food world, and spend time talking to consumers as they shop. The insight generated from this activity is supplemented with bespoke research. For example, we recently won the Interface Innovation competition to fund research into consumer reactions to trout, and how these compare with salmon • Working with customers, primarily the major UK grocery retailers, to understand their shoppers, and develop products that appeal to their needs. This involves building relationships with retailer teams, understanding their priorities, and helping them grow their categories. We share our insights and understanding on a regular basis, as well as completing competitive reviews of the market. These are completed at launch times and for seasonal ranges, to help the retailers understand the category and what is working, as well as spot any gaps for new products and innovation • Raised awareness of products, brand and business through winning awards. In the past year we have won Great Taste Awards and been shortlisted for the Seafood Prix D’Elite for our branded range, won the Marks & Spencer People Leadership Award and won Scotland Food & Drink Awards for Investing in People and for Environmental Sustainability. These accolades help us market ourselves as a responsible, ethical business with great products, and have helped us secure new business in the UK and the USA Engagament: • Websites for the company and for the RR Spink & Sons brand, with blogs that we update regularly. Our Facebook and Twitter streams for the brand have combined followers of nearly 9,000, and our combined total reach over the last year was 317,000. We have reached out to this engaged audience to run consumer and chef surveys, which have in turn added to our understanding. We also run events to raise engagement with our products and brand, such as our launch of the 300 year Anniversary fillet, which generated significant buzz from bloggers and the media. Conclusion Key impacts in the last two years include: Consequently, Dawnfresh Seafoods is well placed to win the prestigious award of Fish Processor of the Year.
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| Flatfish Ltd Grimsby | |
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| Scotprime Seafods Ltd Ayr | |
| Scotprime fully backs fishermen to help them keep their businesses viable when times are hard. I have been with them for five years and have never changed buyer. It is helping younger skippers to buy boats that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford in the current climate. |
Port of the year
| Ardglass |
| Ardglass is a beautiful picturesque fishing port located in South Down. The natural harbour is accessible to fishing boats of all sizes. The fleet consists of over 30 mainly prawn-based trawlers and is also used by the larger herring boats to land. It is a great asset to the village. It is extremely well maintained and has a great Fisherman’s Mission, which gives refuge to fishermen that live onboard. |
| Brixham |
| Not only is Brixham very beautiful, with its coloured houses circling the harbour, but its reputation for the quality and quantity of the fish that it lands and sells is second-to-none. A recent regeneration project created a state-of-the-art fish market which supports a large fishing fleet and attracts visitors, who come to watch the boats, adding to the tourist trade and boosting the local economy. The fishing from Brixham is excellent, with practically year-round landings of quality seafood, a large proportion of which is exported, making Brixham the highest earning port in England. The local fleet combines large modern beam trawlers which go to sea for days at a time, with smaller day boats, landing a wide range of species fresh to the local shops, restaurants and markets. Historic, yet forward-thinking, Brixham is the best. |
| Peterhead |
| By a considerable margin the biggest grossing port in the UK and one that is continually investing in new facilities for the long-term benefit of future generations of fishermen. |
New Boat of the Year 2015
| Álsviør K 337 | Orkney 14m vivier-crabber (16t) built by G Smyth Boats Ltd of Kilkeel |
| Freedom B BK 532 | Murphy Marine Services built this Holy Island-based fast potter which is based on a Cygnus Cyclone 35 hull and rigged for self-hauling and shooting |
| Genesis Enigma H 20 | 14.95m Bridlington-based offshore vivier-crabber (20t) built at Hull by MMS |
| Guardian Angell LK 272 | Shetland 26m single-rig whitefish trawler built at Whitby by Parkol Marine Engineering |
| Guiding Star CY 191 | 14.95m automated scalloper built by Macduff Shipyards for North Uist |
| Kirkella H 7 | 86m factory trawler built in Turkey for UK Fisheries, featuring advanced onboard fish processing and freezing equipment |
| La Creole II BM 177 | 14.95m 30t vivier vessel built for Brixham owners by Parkol Marine Engineering at Whitby |
| Our Dylan Ben BD 207 | Versatile under 12m scalloper/trawler built by C Toms & Son for North Devon owners |
| Steadfast N 315 | 19m multi-rig prawn trawler featuring a number of innovative ideas, built from start to finish by Kilkeel brothers Raymond and Samuel Patterson for their brother Kenneth Patterson |
| Vanguard KY 18 | Pittenweem-based potting catamaran based on a 9.95m catamaran hull, rigged for self-hauling and shooting with a top speed of 18 knots |
Young Fisherman of the Year
| Ryan Corbett | Mate/relief skipper Sparking Star IV BCK 29 |
| At the age of four, Ryan showed a clear interest in fishing. From an early age he took every opportunity to get away to sea. In his early teens he spent many hours constructing Lego trawler models and creating twin-rig systems, showing enthusiasm and an advanced understanding of its working. At the earliest opportunity, while still in school, Ryan completed the Intro to Commercial Fishing Course. In the summer of 2014 Ryan left school to become holdsman aboard Sparkling Star. Proving himself to be a conscientious worker and with a keen eye for detail, the exceptional quality and presentation of the catch gained recognition from Peterhead-based fish processor Seafood Ecosse Ltd, contributing to assured favourable prices. Ryan spent any spare time at sea in the wheelhouse, keen to learn the ‘catching side’ of the job, learning through observation and absorbing all that went on. With another year’s sea time behind him, in the summer of 2015, at age 17, Ryan gained his under-16.5m Unrestricted Skippers Ticket and also two weeks at The Scottish Maritime College to gain his GMDSS general operators certificate. As of January 2016 Ryan competently skippers the boat in turn. I believe Ryan is deserving of recognition due to the competence and maturity he displays, particularly at such a young age. With his leadership skills and dedication to the job I believe he’s a good example to any young entrants planning a career at sea. | |
| Andrew Mack | Skipper Bright Ray LH 163 |
| Quite simply, Andrew has grit and determination and proved this by owning his own vessel for some years now. | |
| Andrew McLean | Skipper Prosperity UL 250 |
| Andrew is a hard working young man, keeping his family business in the fishing industry going on the west coast of Scotland. He employs local people to the fishing industry, running his own boat and working as hard as he can. | |
| Harry Simper | Skipper Silver Harvest IH 311 |
| Harry lives and breathes fishing. He is more than dedicated to fishing and loves what he does. Harry has worked incredibly hard to get to where he is now. At only 20 years old he owns and runs owns his own boat – the Silver Harvest. Growing up on the River Deben, and coming from a family of boat lovers (Author, Robert Simper being his grandfather!) a love of boats is something that has been instilled in Harry from a young age. When he left school at 16 he knew that he wanted to be a fisherman and he has done whatever he has had to, to make it to where he is today. For Harry, being a fisherman isn’t just a job that he does when he’s out at sea, it is an integral part of who he is. If Harry isn’t fishing, he’s baiting lines, fixing nets, tinkering with equipment on the boat, developing new strategies, getting the boat ready or anything else that needs to be done and when he isn’t doing any of that – he’s sure to be thinking of ways in which he can improve. Despite various challenges, Harry has never been disheartened – his positive attitude and will to succeed have picked him up and pulled him through. Harry has recently become a father, which further motivates him to be the best fisherman he can be – not only to earn a living for his family, but also to set a good example to his daughter. (If our daughter grows up to be anywhere near as dedicated and hardworking as her father is, I will be the proudest mother there is). Harry always ensures that he puts 100% into every aspect of his job from baiting the very first line to selling the very last of the catch. When it comes to fishing, you name it, Harry can do it and if not, he’ll sure as hell give it a try! | |
| Ian Shearer | Skipper Courageous LK 470 |
| Ian has demonstrated enthusiasm and dedication to the fishing industry since he left school, and even earlier. He achieved his SVQ fishing in 2006-2007 while crewing onboard Defiant LK371, and he was also awarded the prize as best skillseeker that year. Ian continued his career by achieving his Class 2 Fishing deck officer certificate in 2013, also being awarded the Jeanette Williamson Prize as the outstanding student that year. He has followed this up by acquiring in a secondhand 24m trawler in April 2015, along with a partnership of three young men, all under the age of 25, who have all invested considerably in their future and they have renamed the vessel Courageous LK470, which typifies their commitment to the fishing industry. Since April 2015, Ian and his young crew have fished the vessel very successfully and I am sure he would be very worthy of the title of Young Fisherman of the Year.
I first met Ian Shearer in 2004 when he was still at the Whalsay School and applied to NAFC for a place on the Skills for Work Aquaculture programme. He always said he would be going into fishing but there was no relevant course available for this at that time, and at least the aquaculture course had the opportunity of boat work and some basic seamanship skills. As soon as he left school in 2006 he signed up for the Fish Catching Skillseeker programme and his training vessel was the Whalsay-based Defiant LK 371. Ian sailed through the training and successfully achieved his SQA award in 2007, being awarded the prize for the best student in his year. Continuing at sea until he had sufficient sea time, Ian returned to college to undertake his Class 2 Skippers Ticket during 2013 where, once more, he walked away with the prize for outstanding student of his year. In April 2015 Ian, along with three other enterprising young men from Whalsay took the bold step of acquiring a 24m trawler at significant personal investment. I think this shows huge commitment and investment in the local industry, and this polite, personable and competent young man deserves to be recognised for this. |
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Lifetime Achievement Award
| Dick James | Annalong | Longstanding chief executive of NIFPO |
| Dick has tirelessly served the industry in Northern Ireland for decades and has been the driver in the establishment of one of the biggest POs in the UK. His knowledge and foresight has been, and still is, well respected throughout the industry with no award or recognition for his tremendous efforts. I believe he is a strong candidate for the award. | ||
| Billy Hughes BEM | Pittenweem | Long serving Manager of Pittenweem FMA and stalwart of the Fife fishing industry. |
| He has spent 48 years tirelessly fighting for the future of the Fife fishermen. Billy has been a champion of the fishing industry in Fife for many years. He has defended fishermen and run a business on behalf of the fishermen that is still thriving today. In addition to this he is a good egg! | ||
| Jim Portus | Brixham | Chief Executive SWFPO and organiser of annual Brixham FishFest in support of Fishermen’s Mission |
| Over many years Jim has been a great ambassador for the fishing industry and been instrumental in raising a lot of money for the Fisherman’s Mission. | ||
| Kenneth MacNab MBE | Tarbert | Former skipper, now Chairman of Clyde Fishermen’s Association |
| Kenny has been a stalwart of the CFA for many, many years progressing from a member of the Tarbert branch through all levels and ending up becoming the Chairman of the whole Association. He has spent numerous days and nights lobbying in Brussels for a fairer deal in the quota bun fights, as well as countless trips to London and the Scottish Parliament fighting the British fishermen’s case for over 30 years, sometimes without success, but he never becomes disillusioned with the job in hand.
Kenny is a well-known and respected representative for the fishing communities, not just in Scotland but all over the British Isles. His hard work and enthusiasm was recognised in the Queens Honours list when he was awarded an MBE for services for the Industry. Kenny should also be commended for the fundraising work that he does for the Fishermen’s Mission. After the untimely death of his brother he experienced firsthand the excellent service that they give to fishermen and their families. To support them, he has undertaken many fundraising activities, including walking the Great Wall of China, and continues to push himself to bigger challenges; he is now in training for an ascent on Kilimanjaro later this year. I hope that you will agree with my nomination and consider him as a worthy recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. |
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| Leslie Tait MBE | Shetland | Former skipper, now Chairman Shetland Fishermen’s Association and lecturer at NAFC Marine Centre |
| Leslie Tait wanted to go to the fishing from a very young age and before he left school spent some summers on board drift net boats from his home port. He went on to work in the fishing industry and soon gained his skippers ticket, latterly owning and managing the 75ft whitefish boat Harmony (LK 63), which he bought in 1983 and decommissioned in 2002. At this time, he attended the NAFC Marine Centre in Scalloway, Shetland to upgrade his qualifications but was offered a job as a lecturer in navigation and seamanship at the college so decided to stay ashore and give it a go. This job meant Leslie was able to keep in contact with the industry, through close contact with the young men coming for training, passing on his considerable skills in a quiet, clear and understanding manner. He was also able to dedicate time to local industry associations, being chairman of the Shetland Fish Producers Organisation for a period of time moving on to become chairman of the Shetland Fishermen’s Association, a position he has held for the past eight years.
Leslie is passionate about the fishing industry and works hard to ensure it continues to have a future, which is essential for the Shetland economy and also the wellbeing of the small communities which depend on it. He has been a powerful advocate for Shetland and has taken his industry knowledge and understanding beyond the isles to Europe, Scotland and the UK where, in his calm quiet manner, has had a powerful voice. We think Leslie should win because he epitomises the kind of person who has complete dedication to this industry, which has been demonstrated in many ways, from working in it, employing people in it, to teaching in it and trying to make it better and fit-for-purpose for everybody connected to it. |
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