Among those attending the event were Newlyn harbourmaster and clerk Andrew Munson, vice-chairman of the commissioners Douglas Williams, and Tony Woodhams, project director of the Newlyn Fishing Industry Forum.

Each year the trade newspaper Fishing News hosts the events, presenting a host of awards. Most of the industry 'Oscars' went to Scotland this year.

Some 200 fish and fish industry figures attended the presentations, made by broadcaster and former MP Gyles Brandreth at the Middle Temple Hall.

Newlyn, the only Cornish finalist, received a framed certificate.

Mr Williams told The Cornishman it was a great honour for Newlyn to be selected. The same spirit of enterprise, initiative and independence displayed down the centuries still ruled today.

He thanked the commission, its chairman Bill Stevenson, the Newlyn Forum and Penwith Council for their wholehearted backing.

"During the past 27 years we have had visits from HM the Queen and Princess Diana to officially open new facilities at the harbour for the benefit of the fishermen and the industry," said Mr Williams. "We have just completed a £2 million fishing boat pontoon mooring scheme - a national award winner. Ahead, with a possible start next year, is the building of a multi-million pound new market hall, with surrounding units for the fishing and commercial interests."

Four years ago the Newlyn Fishing Industry Forum was set up to unite the fishing industry with all the community and artistic interests in the village.

It has proved a success and the port's plans had caught the attention of the Fishing News award judges.

article copyright THE CORNISHMAN