The Polperro Harbour Trust has been awarded an Objective One Fisheries grant for over £14,500 to make essential improvements to the Fish Market and surrounding harbour.

A forklift truck will be purchased, which will be quieter for the residents around the harbour and be more environmentally friendly. The quality of the fish will also be improved as the new forklift can transport more boxes straight from the boat to the refrigerated merchant trucks, therefore reducing the time the fish spends unchilled. The loading and unloading of fishing vessels will be more efficient and safer for all concerned.

Secure doors and increased fencing will be provided to enclose and lock the forklift in its parking area on the market and the fish market itself will be secured to prevent possible vandalism.

Clare Leverton, Objective One Fisheries Programme Manager said: “By improving the vital quayside facilities for the boats that land their fish in Polperro, the project will help to retain this fleet locally.”

Mike Blackmore, Chairman of the Polperro Harbour Trust, added: “We would like to express our thanks to independent lift services and safety services group for their help in funding a machine suitable for use in an environment such as Polperro. We would also like to thank South West Pesca for all of their help and support.”