Fisheries post for councillor allergic to fish

dave.tanner@archant.co.uk
31 December 2009

CONSERVATIVE county councillor Alison Boyle from

Appledore has accepted an invitation to serve on the Devon Sea Fisheries Committee - despite being allergic to fish!

Alison has strong connections with the sea. She worked in her father's former shipbuilding yard in the fishing port of Appledore, with its newly built fish dock which serves the local area. And nearby Lundy Island is part of her county constituency.

Although she is unable to eat fish she had grown up with boats and fishing and was committed to the fishing industry, said Cllr Boyle. She was also involved with the local Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and making sure the environment was looked after.

By joining the committee she would be involved in helping to find a sensible balance, she said.

"Having witnessed the pressures on the fishing industry in the l980s and 90s, but having also been made aware of the urgent need to protect stocks and the environment, it is essential to find the right balance that provides security for both those in the area who depend on the fishing industry and the survival of the natural world. I am delighted to have been asked to serve on the committee.

"Although I have to avoid eating fish, I feel this does underline my commitment," she said.