A FILM showcasing the true-life experiences of Welsh fishermen will have its premiere in Cardigan later this month.

‘Meet the Fishermen’ introduces a handful of Welsh fishermen and explores their contribution to the Welsh seafood economy - past and present – and will be screened at The Fisherman’s Rest, Quay Street, on Thursday, February 21 at 6.30pm.

The short film aims to present a candid account, from the fishermen’s perspective, of an industry and way of life which many feel is under pressure.

Currently, there are 450 registered vessels, of which 380 are small boats under 10 metres long. Some launch from ports and harbours, others from beaches and rugged slipways – each with their challenges and opportunities.

Fishermen featured in the film include Dean Parry from Ceredigion, whose family have been involved in the fishing industry for 150 years – as fishermen and fishmongers - but who fears he may be the last in that illustrious line.

His catch predominantly goes abroad, mainly to Europe, but increasingly to Asia.

“The film is an introduction to the lives of Welsh fishermen,” says Carol Evans of the Welsh Fisherman’s Association, which is currently running an awareness campaign entitled ‘Sea Our Future – Support Welsh Fishermen’.

“If our small scale, mainly inshore, fishing fleet is to survive we must together try to re-introduce our fishing and aquaculture sectors to the general public appealing to them for support for what is after all one of Wales’ primary food producers restoring the general perception of the sea with fishing and food production.”

‘Meet the Fishermen’ has been commissioned by the Welsh Seafood Cluster programme. Free to join, the Cluster is available to all seafood businesses operating in Wales and provides training and support for the whole sector - from fishermen, fishmongers, to merchants, aquaculture and hand gatherers.

The free screening will include a seafood buffet and the opportunity to network with businesses from across the Welsh seafood and aquaculture sector, as well as industry experts and government representatives.

Funded through the Welsh Government’s Food & Drink Wales Business Development Programme, the Welsh Seafood Cluster currently engages with some 58 seafood businesses across Wales and links into Food and Drink Wales trade and consumer events.

Its objective is to bring together a range of fishermen, processors, fishmongers, merchants and aquaculture businesses who have quality products and the ambition to grow alongside commercial, government and academic partners.

For more information or to reserve a seat at the screening, contact Siân Davies on 07538074260 or email sian.davies@menterabusnes.co.uk