W STEVENSON & SONS BEAM TRAWLER GRANT

W Stevenson & Sons, owners of the beam trawler the ‘Cornishman’ have been awarded an Objective One Fisheries grant for over £15,000 to make alterations to the vessels hauling system. This will not only improve the working of the vessel but also improve crew conditions.

The new improvements will reduce noise, vibration and maintenance for the crew on the vessel, which is time consuming and costly. The safety of the crew will also be increased from this project.

The ‘Cornishman’ is one of the largest vessels operating out of the UK and lands exclusively in Newlyn. However, the vessel has been sent to Holland for this work, due to the UK having no suitable place for this beamer to dry out and the vessel is too heavy for Newlyn slip.

Clare Leverton, Objective One Fisheries Programme Manager commented, “Any project that improves working conditions for the crew, and in turn safety, should be funded through Objective One funding. It is important that fishermen call South West PESCA Ltd on 01872 270333 if they are thinking of having any work to their vessels done.”

Elizabeth Stevenson of the partnership W Stevensons & Sons said: “The Cornishman is an important part of our fleet. This grant will enable her to work more safely and efficiently and play her part in the future of Newlyn’s fishing industry.”