FISHERIES in Dorset will be given a boost after being allocated £800,000 worth of funding.

The Dorset and East Devon Fisheries Local Action Group (FLAG) fund launched at the Crab House Café in Weymouth.

The investment in the fisheries industry, from Swanage to Beer in Devon, will see local representatives from the fishing, aquaculture and related industries help develop projects which boost the local economy.

Joe Miller, of Swanage and District Fishermen’s Association, said: “The award of the FLAG for the area will hopefully see the facilities around local harbours be brought up to date. It is clear from the work of previous FLAGs in other areas that there are some great benefits available, and I hope that the Dorset and East Devon FLAG can bring similar benefits here.”

The money, secured by the Dorset Coast Forum and Dorset County Council, has been awarded by the Marine Management Organisation as part of the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. It will be available for match funding for projects that meet the local needs for the area, which are set out in the Local Development Strategy.

Cllr Peter Finney, Dorset County Council Cabinet member for environment, said: “The FLAG will go a long way to assisting the local fishing communities, increase their economic resilience and improve their sustainability moving forward. This fund will allow local people to be involved in projects that will enhance the fisheries and aquaculture sector in the area.”