This post is the second in a series of posts.  Tom and Kath Long have spent some time in England before heading off to Brussels.

While we waited for our hostess, Eleanor Adamson, in the impressive foyer of the Fishmongers’ Hall, we gazed in awe at the rich splendour and ancient history which adorned the walls and ceiling. We obviously weren’t going to see any seafood for sale here.

The Fishmongers’ Company

History and Heritage: The Fishmongers’ Company boasts a continuous presence of over 700 years, making it one of the earliest of the Twelve Great Livery Companies (City Guilds). The original Fishmongers’ Guild Hall was destroyed by the Great Fire of 1666, and over the centuries new buildings situated beside the river in Central London have lost none of the original grandeur. While continuing to honour its medieval Royal Charters, the Fishmongers’ Company has adjusted to the demands of modern times.

Present Day Activities: The UK is facing many similar challenges as the Australian fishing industry. Smaller scale fishers are struggling, they receive a low financial return on their product, the average age of an inshore fisher is increasing, and the fishing industry doesn’t have much of a voice. The Fishmongers’ Company is working to address these and many other issues within the industry. Their aim is to promote the health, prosperity and sustainability of the fish and fisheries sector for the long-term benefit of the United Kingdom.

Reducing the Supply Chain: One initiative is to create a certification program to market product as sustainable and local. The aim is to develop a traceable supply chain via an online auction system to bring fisher and fishmonger together. Fishers are being supported to fish better at sustainable levels to increase the return on their product.

Master Fishmonger Accreditation: Fishmongers are encouraged to apply to have their professionalism, passion and extensive skills and knowledge recognised through the Master Fishmonger Standards (MFS). The scope of the standard ranges from Recognised Fishmonger through to Master Fishmonger and ultimately MFS Companion.

Authors: Tom and Kath Long, TomKat Line Fish

Image Credit: Tom and Kath Long

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