Fishermen are to join forces on the Yorkshire coast to give their industry its biggest boost for years.

The European Union, Government agencies and local authorities are to put up money to fund the appointment of a project officer to mastermind new initiatives aimed at increasing sales of fish.

In recent years the industry has seen a decline due to EU curbs on quotas and decommissioning of boats.

John Trebble, Scarborough Council's Chief executive said a fishing forum had been set up to aid the centuries-old fishing industry at Scarborough, Filey and Whitby and several fishing villages and it was likely that a new initiative would include Bridlington.

Under the scheme, a £25,000 a year officer will be appointed to give fishermen advice on business planning. Help with seeking grant aid, identifying new markets of their catches and one of the main idea will be development of a local quality mark.

Codes of practice will be developed for the handling of fish both on board the boats and at the harbourside fish markers.

Major promotions are planned under the scheme aimed at retailers, caterers and hoteliers, together with the publication of promotional material said Mr Trebble.

The EU is expected to contribute to the scheme through its PESCA fund which aids the fishing industry, with other funding coming from the rural Development Commission, North Yorkshire County Council, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Scarborough Council and the fishing industry itself.

The move follows a marketing and feasibility study into the future of the fishing industry on the coast by consultants.

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