Michael Corin skipper and owner of the Newlyn beam trawler ‘Sapphire’ has been awarded an Objective 1 Fisheries grant for almost £5,000 and a Defra grant of £700 to refurbish and insulate the vessels fishroom.

The ‘Sapphire’ fishes for a variety of species including Dover sole, monkfish, megrim, lemon sole and plaice, which is landed to the Newlyn market. The condition of the fishroom is extremely important and adds to the quality of the fish.

The new fishroom will be insulated with a tough high-density plastic, which will be hard wearing and easier to keep clean. The layout of the fishroom will also be altered to allow for the boxes of fish to be stacked. This will increase the quality of the fish, as they will not be moving around, which can lead to bruising and lower the value of the fish. The insulation will also keep the fish stored at a low temperature.

The crew’s working conditions will improve a great deal from the grant.

Clare Leverton, Objective 1 Fisheries Programme Manager commented "Any improvements made to the quality of fish landed in Cornwall helps to secure a sustainable future for the industry. Quality starts on deck!"

Michael Corin, owner and skipper of the ‘Sapphire’ added "In the days of fishing quotas and restrictions, it is vital that our catch is presented at the market in peak condition. The improvements to the fishroom will ensure that our catch is stored in a chilled, hygienic environment. The crew will find the improved storage much easier and safer to work with."