Scottish fish landing value rises by 12%

The Scottish Fishermen's Federation said challenges remained

The value of fish landed by Scottish boats went up 12% in 2009, according to new figures.

The Scottish government said fish worth £443m was landed last year, an increase of £47m.

Bertie Armstrong, chief executive of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation, welcomed the figures but said challenges remained.

The number of active fishing vessels based in Scotland dropped from 2,205 at the end of 2008 to 2,174.