John Wilkins owner and skipper of the ‘Soft Shadow’, which lands in Mevagissey and Newlyn has been awarded an Objective 1 Fisheries grant for £2,000 to improve conditions for the crew.

By building the shelter the amount of water on board the ‘Soft Shadow’ will be dramatically reduced, which will improve stability of the boat, and safety conditions for the crew. It will also protect them from strong winds and water whilst they are working on deck.

Clare Leverton, Objective 1 Fisheries Programme Manager commented ‘The new whaleback will effectively improve the working conditions on Mr Wilkins fishing boat and is a good example of the kind of improvements that Objective One grants can be used."

John Wilkins, owner of the ‘Soft Shadow’ added ‘Without grant aid this job would not have been done. Also this gives me confidence to go further out at sea and has improved many aspects of the job for all of the crew. I wish to convey many thanks to all involved.’