THE fishing industry along the Yorkshire coast is to get a lifeline of almost £500,000 after suffering decline in recent years.

It results from the setting up of the Yorkshire Coast Fishing Forum four years ago to explore ways of developing the industry at Scarborough, Whitby and Filey.

An action package has been drawn up costing £483,500 - and regional development agency Yorkshire Forward is being asked to contribute £269,500.

Five action points are to be targeted - research into the effects of no trawl-fishing zones, a study of the needs of the ports' fishing industry, setting up a European network of training in IT and the Internet for those employed in the industry, the re-designing of Whitby fish market hall and an investigation into the potential of bass fishing.

"The strategy will provide a framework for the development priorities of the fishing industry," said Scarborough Borough Council chief executive John Trebble.

In its strategy, the forum stated: "The fishing industry on the North Yorkshire coast has for centuries sustained the local economy. Even today, while it is by no means the mainstay of the community, it still provides a valuable economic, social and cultural asset".

The Sea Fish Industry has told the council that following a recent study it found the fish was of "an exceptionally high quality".

However, it said improvements should be made by encouraging fishing crews to use electronic weighing-at-sea equipment, and to take ice on board when going to the fishing grounds.

Its report hit out at those in the fishing industry for not adhering to notices banning smoking and eating, and lack of use of protective clothing.