A FISHERMAN has been hit with a court bill of more than £16,000 after being found guilty of failing to comply with directions given by fisheries and conservation officers.

Geoffrey Bennett, aged 53, was accused of two offences in relation to an incident at Rockley Marina in Poole Harbour.

Bennett, of Fitzworth Avenue, Turlin Moor, denied both offences but was found guilty following a trial at Poole Magistrates' Court on Thursday, January 27.

The prosecution over matters dating back to September 3, 2020, was brought by Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (Southern IFCA).

Sam Dell, Southern IFCA deputy chief officer, said: “This case sends a clear message that failing to comply with the authority’s officers will not be tolerated.

"The Marine and Coastal Access Act gives our officers common enforcement powers to carry out inspections.

"It provides robust legislation to protect officers against this type of misconduct.

"The Southern IFCA is committed to protecting the fishery to ensure healthy seas and a viable industry. By taking offenders to court we aim to support a sustainable local fishery.”

Bennett was fined £6,000, ordered to pay prosecution costs of £10,000 and a victim surcharge of £180 after the conviction for two offences under the Maritime and Coastal Access Act in relation to enforcement officers.