Yorkshire fisher receives Merchant Navy Medal

An ex-fisherman from Bridlington who changed career to become a marine surveyor has received his Merchant Navy Medal for Meritorious Service at a ceremony in London, reports Paul Scott.

Director of UK Maritime Services Katy Ware with Paul Scotter and MCA principal marine surveyor David Fuller at the medal presentation.

Highly respected locally, nationally and internationally, Paul Scotter received the medal, awarded in recognition of his work in helping to save lives at sea and setting an ‘outstanding example to others’, on 22 November at a ceremony held at Trinity House, London.

Described as a ‘key figure’ in improving safety for fishing crews, the 62-year-old moved to the MCA 17 years ago, following a career in the Merchant Navy and working on his own fishing vessels as part of a family business.

Now based at the MCA’s Beverley office in Yorkshire, Paul Scotter’s professionalism is described as leaving ‘a lasting legacy of improved safety on fishing vessels’.

David Fuller, principal marine surveyor for the MCA, said those in the fishing industry ‘have Paul to thank for preventing many avoidable accidents over the years’.

Paul Scotter with his wife Bev at Trinity House after being presented with his medal.

Speaking after seeing Paul Scotter receive the medal, David Fuller said: “The event was a splendid presentation to numerous individuals receiving the Merchant Navy Medal, and I was delighted that Paul was presented with his medal in recognition of his service to the fishing industry.”

It was announced in September that Paul Scotter, along with 13 other mariners, would receive the Merchant Navy Medal for ‘exemplary service and devotion to duty’.

On receiving the prestigious medal, Paul Scotter said he was ‘extremely honoured’. “To be recognised for my long- standing commitment to the fishing industry is a proud moment.

“I feel privileged to have supported this important industry throughout my career, and look forward to continuing to improve safety, health and welfare,” he said.

This story was taken from the latest issue of Fishing News. For more up-to-date and in-depth reports on the UK and Irish commercial fishing sector, subscribe to Fishing News here or buy the latest single issue for just £3.30 here.