Green surveys aid North Sea fishing

The new dinghy will have a four-man crew

The viability of sea fishing along the North East Coast has been boosted through a new inflatable boat which will aid environmental surveys.

The North Eastern Sea Fisheries Committee will also use the 6.5m dinghy for fisheries enforcement.

The committee manages, regulates and protects the fisheries within the area to ensure the sustainability of the marine environment.

The vessel is equipped with a satellite positioning system, electronic charting system, depth sounder, VHF radio and search light.

Built by Hull-based Humber Inflatables, it is powered by twin 60 HP Mariner engines and has a top speed of over 40 knots.

It will be manned by a crew of four and operations will focus on the Holderness coastline and the Humber Estuary.

"The delivery of this new vessel will significantly strengthen the committee's operational capabilities both in terms of conducting environmental surveys and monitoring work and carrying out fisheries enforcement activities," said chief fishery officer, David McCandless.