A north-east skipper has been named as the country’s best fisherman.
Scottish fishermen took home six gongs in total at this year’s Fishing News Awards, but it was Fraserburgh skipper William Whyte, who helms vessel Forever Grateful, who was named as the country’s best.
Mr Whyte, who the awards said showcased determination and skill, was named as Pelagic Fisherman of the Year, while Burnmouth’s John Affleck was named Shellfisherman of the Year.
The awards were presented by professional chef and restaurateur Simon Rimmer.
He said: “Scottish seafood has always been held in extremely high regard and off the back of these wins it’s easy to see why.
“As a chef, the quality of the seafood I serve is of the utmost priority and having such high quality seafood so readily available in the UK is a real treat for me and my customers.
“It has been a privilege to be able to honour those who help to put it on our plates.”
Scots fishermen also claimed top prizes in the Young Fisherman of the Year and Lifetime Achievement awards.
Ian Shearer, skipper of Shetland’s Courageous, was named best fisherman under the age of 25, while Billy Hughes, manager of Pittenweem Fishermen’s Mutual Association, took home an award for his lifetime in the industry.
More 2,500 votes were cast across nine categories by members of the public, with the Mr Shearer and Mr Hughes’ awards being decided by a dedicated panel of industry experts.
