Shortlist success

TWO LOCAL seafood organisations have been shortlisted in different categories of the Crown Estate’s Scottish Aquaculture Marine Awards.

The NAFC Marine Centre UHI, in Scalloway, has been named as one of the contenders in the supplier of the year category, while Seafood Shetland was recognised for its ‘So Much to Sea’ campaign in the community initiative category.

Some of the larger multinational companies that hold stakes in the Shetland sector such as Scottish Sea Farms, Cooke Aquaculture and the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group have also made the final shortlist.

The NAFC is being recognised for its modern apprenticeship course in aquaculture – as well as the industry training the college provides on a number of levels.

Skills development manager at the college, Andy Glen, said the training team was delighted to have been shortlisted.

“We are pleased that the hard work and dedication of all our staff here in aquaculture training and in our support services has been recognised by the Crown Estate Marine Aquaculture Awards,” he said.

Seafood Shetland manager Ruth Henderson said the ‘So Much to Sea’ initiative was devised to generate awareness of the seafood sector and the excellent products available on Shetland’s doorstep.

“The project has been a huge success within the community and we hope to continue with it in the future. By developing a highly interesting and energetic campaign, significant progress has been achieved in ensuring that Shetland seafood is back in the spotlight.

“Firm foundations have been laid in establishing it as a first rate product of choice that is well managed, sustainable, diverse and the lifeline of Shetland’s communities.”

The winners in the eight different categories will be announced during an award ceremony at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh on 11 June.