Cornish skipper named Fishing Hero of the Year for sustainability

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 13:22 · Archive

Tom Lambourn, a 30-year-old sardine boat skipper from Newlyn, Cornwall, has been named Fishing Hero of the Year by the Marine Stewardship Council.

Tom Lambourn, a 30-year-old skipper based in Newlyn, Cornwall, has been named Fishing Hero of the Year at the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and ASC UK Awards 2026, held at London's Fishmongers' Hall. He was recognised by the judges for his dedication to promoting the small-scale Cornish sardine fishery and his commitment to ensuring stocks remain healthy.

Lambourn captains his own sardine boat, the Lyonesse, throughout the sardine season from July to April. He left Cornwall to study for a chemistry degree but was drawn back by the pull of the ocean. The Falmouth Packet reports that he has played a key role in launching the Cornish Sardine Festival, which celebrates the fishery's 500-year history and the quality of its catch.

In his acceptance speech, Lambourn said: 'I'm really proud to accept this award and represent the fantastic Cornish sardine fishery. Sustainable fishing means that the future generations of my family will also be able to fish. It's so important to educate young people about the importance of the MSC and being certified.' Lewis Tattersall, MSC UK and Ireland senior fisheries outreach manager, praised Lambourn's 'enthusiasm and effectiveness in championing the product he and his crew land' and the lengths taken to ensure stocks remain healthy.

How it is being reported

• Cornish fisherman honoured with Fishing Hero of the Year awardTom Lambourn, a skipper based in Newlyn, received the honour at the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and ASC UK Awards 2026.Falmouth Packet · 1 Nov, 12:00
• Skipper who champions Cornish sardines gets awardTom Lambourn is praised by judges for his efforts to ensure stocks remain healthy.BBC Cornwall · 31 Oct, 15:16

In this story: Tom Lambourn · Newlyn · Cornwall · Marine Stewardship Council · Fishmongers' Hall · Lyonesse · Paradise Park

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log