Scots fisherman who sold langoustines to Queen, Gordon Ramsay and Simon Cowell up for prestigious award

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A Scots fisherman whose produce has been bought by Gordon Ramsay, Simon Cowell and the late Queen is up for a prestigious industry prize.Ian Wightman, who brings in his catch at Largs Pier, North Ayrshire, has made a name for himself in the sector by specialising in pioneering sustainable methods.He’s now been nominated in the Under 10 Metre Fisherman of the Year category for the 2024 Fishing News Awards, which spans the UK and Ireland.Ian works the Eilidh Anne GK2 vessel with his main catch being Scottish langoustines.The popular local figure promotes the fishing industry throughout the area including outreach in schools - and has helped establish new technologies which make fishing greener and more efficient.These include innovative nets with underwater cameras, sensors and repelling LED lights to reduce “bycatch” of unwanted fish and mammals like dolphins and help the marine environment.Ian’s high-quality langoustine catch has also been a big hit with celebs down the years.He told the Record: “We've got a high-quality product.

Everything I land goes away and is sold for a live market.“It’s all white-linen restaurants. We’ve had our stuff with Gordon Ramsay.

Simon Cowell has had our stuff for one of his birthday parties. The Queen had our stuff at Balmoral.”Ian, 59, added on the nomination. “It feels like somebody’s taken note and I’m getting a nod for doing the right thing.

Do I think I’ll win it? Probably not.“And the other boys who are up for it, fair play to them as well - everybody’s got a chance.“It's nice to be recognised and appreciated for your efforts.