Access, Authenticity, and Insight: The Bridge to the Fishing Industry

Newlyn is more than a harbour; it is a closed community with its own language, politics, and protocols. For outsiders—whether they are film crews, journalists, chefs, or researchers—navigating this world without a guide can result in lost time, factual errors, and missed opportunities.

I act as that guide. With over 40 years of experience fishing out of Newlyn I offer you the bridge between your production goals and the reality of the quay. I provide the access you need, the safety you require, and the authenticity your audience demands.

My consultancy sits firmly on that foundation. Since 1978 I’ve worked across the fishing industry: as a skipper, a long-term observer of the fleet, a documenter of landings, and a bridge between working fishermen and the people who need to understand them. Over the years I’ve advised TV producers, journalists, researchers, authors, and students — helping them find the right stories, the right people, and the right details.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Contact me before you start your pre-production or research planning. Early consultation allows us to assess feasibility, secure the necessary access, and ensure your story is grounded in reality.

Location scouting & Access

Location scouting & Access: I secure permissions for hard-to-access locations, including private quays, fish markets, and active vessels. I can identify the right boat for your specific visual needs and negotiate directly with skippers.

Technical Advice for Scripts

Technical Accuracy & Script Advisory: Authenticity is critical. I review scripts and scenes to ensure nautical terminology, gear usage, and working practices are portrayed accurately, saving you from industry criticism post-broadcast.

Culinary Collaborations & Provenance

From Net to Plate: Connecting Chefs to the Source

Top chefs know that the story of the catch is as important as the flavour. I work with Michelin-starred chefs, restaurateurs, and food bodies to promote the quality and sustainability of Newlyn fish. My role bridges the gap between the deck of the trawler and the pass of the kitchen.

Chef Partnerships & Photography: I provide the visual narrative that authenticates the dining experience.

  • Tom Aikens: I supplied fishing photography for his restaurant and his book, Fish, grounding his culinary work in the reality of the sea.

  • Industry Advocates: I have collaborated with Nathan Outlaw and Cyrus Todiwala to highlight the provenance of Cornish seafood.

  • Rick Stein: I appeared on Rick Stein’s Cornish Christmas Special, discussing traditional fish cooking methods and the heritage of the local fleet.

Sustainability & Species Promotion: I work with industry bodies to change consumer habits and promote sustainable alternatives.

  • National Fish Fryers Federation: I work to promote Hake and Dogfish (Huss) as high-quality, sustainable alternatives to traditional Cod and Haddock.

  • MSC (Marine Stewardship Council): Collaborating to verify and promote sustainable fishing practices together with the Cornwall Sardine Managememt Association..

Health & Safety

Risk Assessment Support: A working quay is a high-risk environment. I assist location managers in identifying hazards and planning logistics to ensure the safety of cast and crew.

Journalism & Literary Consultation

Deep Background & Trusted Introductions for Writers

For authors and journalists, the story lies in the nuance. A lack of industry understanding can lead to shallow reporting or factual errors that undermine the credibility of your work.

I provide writers with the deep background and context necessary to write about the fishing industry with authority. I move beyond simple soundbites, helping you understand the economic, political, and social pressures facing the fleet today.

Services for Writers:

  • Fact-Checking & Context: Verifying industry details and explaining complex fishing regulations.

  • Interview Facilitation: Connecting you with the right skippers, families, and industry figures who are willing to talk.

Trusted By:

  • Acclaimed Authors: I have assisted writers such as Lamorna Ash (Dark, Salt, Clear) and Rose George (Every Last Fish) in navigating the harbour and connecting with its community.

  • Broadcast & Print News: I regularly facilitate reporting for national and local news outlets, including ITN and BBC Radio Cornwall, ensuring deadlines are met with accurate, on-the-ground information.

Academic & Student Facilitation

Guiding Research from Undergraduate to PhD

Fieldwork in a maritime setting requires more than just academic rigour; it requires situational awareness and industry respect. I provide mentorship and logistical support for university students and researchers conducting data collection in Newlyn.

  • Bridging the Gap: I help students navigate the social structures of the port, ensuring their interactions with fishermen are respectful and productive.

  • Safety & Logistics: I guide researchers on safe working practices within the harbour environment.

Scientific & Regulatory Collaboration

Trusted by Regulators

My consultancy extends to the scientific sector, acting as a reliable conduit between the catching sector and regulatory organizations.

Collaborative history includes:

  • CFPO (Cornish Fish Producers Organisation)

  • Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science)

  • CSMA (Cornwall Sardine Management Association)

  • MSC (Marine Stewardship Council)
filming cameraman

“Connecting policy makers, media professionals, and the culinary world with the reality of the fishing industry.”

Industry & Governance

  • Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO)

  • Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)

  • Marine Management Organisation (MMO)

  • Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (Advisory Board)

  • Cornish Sardine Management Association (CSMA)

Science & Education

  • Cefas

  • Seafood Cornwall Training

  • University Scientists & Research Institutes

  • Truro & Penwith College

Media, Culinary & Arts

  • BBC & Major TV Productions

  • Acclaimed Authors & Biographers

  • Michelin-starred & High-profile Chefs

  • Fish Festivals & Events

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