Friday, 24 October 2008

GOLD TICKET AWARDED TO SHETLAND’S YOUNGEST FISHERMAN

Steven Mair is the youngest fisherman in Shetland to achieve the Gold Standard Under 16m Skippers ticket, which allows him to fish beyond 20 nautical miles from shore.

His training began by completing his SVQ Level 2 Marine Vessel Operations (Fishing) in 2006 whilst working on board local fishing boat Sharyn Louise LK250.  He then took advantage of the free training offered at the NAFC Marine Centre to successfully complete the necessary Stability Awareness, five-day Bridge Watchkeeping and two-day Engineroom Watchkeeping courses.  It was this collection of certificates, together with those previously gained, that led Steven to apply for the Under 16m Skippers ticket through Shetland Fisheries Training Association (SFTA).

Caroline Hepburn, training co-ordinator at SFTA, said: “I’m delighted that this ambitious and dedicated young fisherman has maximised the opportunities available to him in terms of free training to gain this valuable certificate.

“All the courses required for the Under 16m ticket are available at the NAFC Marine Centre during the winter months and are free of charge to eligible fishermen who hold the four mandatory safety courses.”

Nineteen year old Steven, who is now fishing with Scotia BF32, added: “I’m really pleased to achieve this ticket.  It was very handy that the courses were available in Scalloway and I’m looking forward to going back to the NAFC Marine Centre next year to gain my Class 2 Fishing Vessel Engineering ticket as well.”

Further information:

For further information, please contact: Caroline Hepburn or Arlene Wilmore, tel 01595 772000, email info@nafc.uhi.ac.uk or visit www.nafc.ac.uk

Or, Louise Rosie, Shaw Marketing and Design Ltd, tel 01595 692465 or email louise.rosie@shaw-online.com