Students learn first hand about fishing industry

Students who are preparing for jobs in commercial fishing have heard first hand from retired and active fishermen who have worked in the industry for years.

South Devon College is training the next generation of fishers at its Marine Academy in Kingswear and has invested in a state of the art simulator so students can train in a safe environment.

Retired and current fishermen have visited the college and passed on their tips for a successfully career.

Retired fisherman Colin Warwick, who was in the industry for 27 years, said "I loved this job" and "if I had my time again, I would follow the same path as I did before".

The students on the course are studying for their licences and certificates to fish commercially at sea.

Alan Steer, a third generation crab fisherman born in Beesands, Devon, said the training facility and course were "fantastic".

"We're struggling to recruit new people into the industry and to have this here is brilliant.

"It is great for safety, it's great for training."

Steve Caunter, assistant principal, said: "The reason for bringing the retired fishermen together with our marine students is the wealth of experience they have in the industry, the opportunity for them to get involved and share experiences and stories, and inspire the next generation of seafarers.

"Our bridge simulator allows apprentices and students to experience life at sea in a safe and controlled environment."

Student Jordan Mills, who is from a fishing family, said: "I think it is very important to get an idea of the experience, what it is like out there.

"Obviously it is not all sunshine and rainbows.

"This gives you a real life experience of what it's actually going to be like."

Student Neikori Wilson, who is originally from Bermuda and is new to the industry, said: "I haven't been out on a fishing boat before so I'm very new.

"These guys have been doing it and then they're retired... so there will be a lot of information to take in."

James Corbett, who is a student from Torquay, said: "All my family's done it.

"When you are driving to the boat down the harbour it's quiet. You get out there [at sea] you're just alone doing your own stuff.

"It's the sunrises, what you catch, it's just lovely what you see."

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