Value of seafood in Cornwall shown in new report

The seafood sector employs about 8,000 people in Cornwall

Fishermen helped to bring in more than £170m to the Cornish economy in 2021, a new report has shown.

The research, from Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO), showed that each fisherman supports 15 more jobs in the seafood trade.

Newlyn is the busiest port in the county, landing more than £30m of shellfish and other fish in 2021.

Crab valued at more than £6m was caught in the same year, making it the most lucrative catch.

One person interviewed in the report said: "The humble crab supports a lot of jobs and everyone in the chain."

Crab valued at more than £6m was landed in 2021

The report was commissioned by the CFPO to find out the value of seafood to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

It found that the seafood sector made £174m in 2021 and employed about 8,000 people around the county in a variety of roles including fishing, processing and restaurants.

The report described buying fish from a fishmonger in a harbour full of fishing boats as a "visitor experience" which helps boost tourism.

'Key part of Cornish brand'

Chris Ranford, chief executive officer of the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation, said: "The symbiotic relationship between fishing, hospitality and tourism is completely unique to Cornwall.

"It's something we can all be proud of and make sure we're protecting and enhancing for future generations."

Malcolm Bell, from Visit Cornwall, said: "Seafood is a key part of the Cornish brand. When you think of Cornwall, you think of the food as much as the destination.

"Holidaying in Cornwall and eating Cornish seafood are one and the same so it's vital we protect the fishing and seafood industry.

"Without them Cornwall's tourism economy wouldn't perform as well."