Fishermen in Hastings have been recognised for the eco-friendly way they fish. The mackerel, herring and Dover sole fisheries have been awarded Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) status.
In a nutshell, gaining MSC status means fisheries have been able to meet strict requirements for sustainable fish stocks, a healthy marine environment, and effective management.
The award was given in a ceremony on Friday, October 7. Paul Joy Chairman of Hastings Fishermen’s Protection Society received the award on behalf of the fishermen involved. He explained: “We have always known that our fishing methods are eco-friendly and sustainable. We have not had to change our practices to achieve this accreditation. However, we appreciate this as an important recognition of what we do”.
This is great news for the fishing sector in Hastings. The fisheries given the MSC accreditation are allowed to display the MSC logo on retail packaging or restaurant menus. The logo is an easy way for consumers to know that the fish they buy is from a sustainable source.
The MSC’s Chief Executive Rupert Howes explained the importance of the award: “This is a major achievement by one of the UK’s most historic fishing towns. By committing to sustainable practices, the fishing community in Hastings has made a farsighted investment in its economic future and the marine environment”.
The ceremony was a fishy affair. Guests were treated to fresh seafood delights cooked by ‘Tush’ and Pat Hamilton whose ‘Fishermen’s Rolls’ are a real attraction on Rock-a-Nore Road.
Hastings Borough Council leader Jeremy Birch was amongst the guests, he said: “Local fisheries can now take advantage of the new trends which see eco-friendly, sustainable products becoming more and more popular. Hastings fishermen have been given important recognition for the important contribution they make to our town’s economy. This is good news for consumers, for fishermen and for our town as a whole”.
Photo shows from left to right: Chief Executive of the MSC Rupert Howes,, fisherman Graham Bossom, Marnie Bammert MSC, fisherman Paul Joy, Mayor of Hastings Councillor Pam Brown, Council leader Jeremy Birch.
As part of consultation to help shape plans for Pebsham Countryside Park, hundreds of visitors flocked to Priory Meadow Shopping Centre in October to fill in questionnaires. More than 260 were completed on the spot.
The questionnaires showed:
97% in support of a new countryside park (with 74% “strongly in favour” and 23% “in favour”). Three per cent were “neutral” and one per cent “strongly against.”
When asked about the most important purpose for the park, 93% of respondents cited “nature conservation”, 32% “access for all” and 19% “relaxation.”
The most popular activity was wildlife watching (cited by 68% of respondents as the one or two activities people most wanted), followed by walking (cited by 60%), sports (22%), play facilities (19%), education (18%) and public art (9%).
The most popular sports were cycling (45% of respondents), followed by angling and riding (26% each), water sports (21%), orienteering (21%), BMX (9%) and motor-biking (5%). Four percent wanted no sports and 9% suggested other sports.
Other thoughts and ideas raised included:
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This page last updated: 21/12/2005