New exhibition zooms in on experiences of fishing crews

The moving accounts and portraits of 12 passionate workers in the Scottish fishing industry are centrestage in a new exhibition.

Pride in the Seas is already online and will make its “real life” debut in the Scottish Parliament in the coming months.

It is hoped it will help MSPs, government officials and others better understand the stories and values of Scotland’s vital fishing communities.

Following its stint in Parliament, the exhibition will be available for tour across towns, schools, museums and other public facilities around the country.

The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) project aims to highlight the pride, heritage and commitment to sustainability of today’s fishing communities.

SFF hopes it will also deliver insights into huge challenges faced by fishers, such as diminishing access to fishing grounds, recruitment and “the fear of misguided government intervention”.

The exhibition will feature subjects from Shetland to Berwickshire, captured by acclaimed Scottish photographer Ian Georgeson.

Among them are members of the Fraserburgh-based Robertson family – dad Mark and sons Adam and Paul.

They are from a long line of fishermen and are now co-owners of a shellfish vessel, Zenith.

Mark Robertson said: “I’ve had my own vessel since I was 22. To now see Adam and Paul as skippers and part of our business is fantastic.

“We all have to work together to do the best we can – skippers, scientists, government.”

Peterhead-based Colin Stephen, skipper of the Harvest Hope, is also featured in the exhibition.

With more than 35 years in the industry, he still gets a buzz from a good catch.

Representing the Scottish Pelagic Fisherman’s Association is Steven Mackinson.

Others in the exhibition include two Mallaig-based fishers, Willie John McLean and 19-year-old deckhand Erin Mackenzie.

SFF chief executive Elspeth Macdonald said: “The passion and pride of those working in the industry is a constant source of inspiration.

“They are out there in all manner of conditions, putting healthy, sustainable and climate-smart food on our tables.”

SEA CHANGE: Fraserburgh fishing trio Mark Robertson, centre, and his sons Paul and Adam feature in the exhibition.