Scottish Fishermen's Federation

We’re incredibly proud to share that Horizon Watch by Scottish Fishermen's Federation has won Initiative of the Year at the 2026 Fishing News Awards! 🏆

This recognition is a huge achievement and reflects the hard work, collaboration, and commitment behind Horizon Watch and the positive impact it continues to make across the fishing industry.

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the initiative and helped make this possible.

You can read the full coverage of the Fishing News Awards 2026 in the latest edition of — pick up your copy to see all the winners and celebrations from the night!

For more information on Horizon Watch visit
https://www.sff.co.uk/horizon-watch-downloads

Today the Scottish Fishermen's Federation is proud to be supporting , a 24-hour celebration shining a spotlight on the UK’s fishing and seafood industry.

The campaign is a great opportunity to recognise the people, skills and communities that keep our sector moving, from crews at sea to the wider seafood supply chain on shore.

We encourage our member associations, fishermen and Scotland’s wider fishing community to get involved, share their stories and help showcase the vital role fishing plays in our coastal communities and national food security.

🏆 We’re proud to be pictured receiving the Initiative of the Year award for Horizon Watch at the Fishing News Award 2026.

A huge thank you once again to everyone who voted for us!

It was a fantastic evening celebrating the achievements and successes across the UK and Irish fishing industries.

Horizon Watch helps developers and fishers work together before cables are installed.

To find out more about Horizon Watch
https://www.sff.co.uk/horizon-watch-downloads

Today, Team SFF is at Stand C2 at Scottish Skipper Expo 2026 at P&J Live.

Scottish Skipper Expo is a key event for the fishing industry, bringing people together to connect, do business, exchange ideas and discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the sector.

If you’re attending today, come by and say hello to the team!

Today marks the opening of Scottish Skipper Expo 2026 at P&J Live, with the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation proud to jointly sponsor the event alongside Peterhead Port Authority.

Scottish Skipper Expo provides an important opportunity for the fishing industry to come together, do business, share ideas and discuss the key issues shaping the future of the sector.

Chief Executive Elspeth Macdonald said: “It’s great to see so many exhibitors here today, and whether you are a ‘regular’ at Scottish Skipper Expo or are here for the first time, I hope that you do good business as well as finding time to catch up with clients and friends along the way.”

Taking place on the same day as the Scottish Parliament election, this year’s event comes at a significant moment for fishing in Scotland. From the future of fisheries policy and marine planning to offshore renewables, safety at sea and the development of the next generation of fishermen, the decisions made in the years ahead will have a lasting impact on coastal communities and fishing businesses across the country.

We hope everyone attending Scottish Skipper Expo 2026 has a productive and enjoyable event.

We’re delighted to see Horizon Watch by Scottish Fishermen's Federation, recognised as Initiative of the Year at the 2026 Fishing News Awards! 🏆

Horizon Watch is an information bulletin designed to keep Scottish fishermen informed about upcoming subsea cable routes and installations. With increasing offshore developments, early access to this information is vital in helping improve safety, minimise disruption, and protect livelihoods across the sector.

This recognition highlights the importance of collaboration, communication, and innovation in supporting the future of the fishing industry.

Congratulations to everyone involved in the development and continued success of Horizon Watch.

If you’re attending Skipper Expo Aberdeen over the next two days, be sure to visit us at Stand C2 — we’d love to see you there!

May 2026 sees the beginning of a new era for SFF Services Limited (SFFSL) and Marine Environmental Solutions Limited (MES). After thirty years of valued service Steven Alexander stepped down as Managing Director at the end of April and we all wish him well in his retirement.

Sheryl Gove has now assumed the Managing Director role, joining the Executive Team, alongside the Chief Executive Officer, Elspeth Macdonald and Finance Director, Derek Duthie. Sheryl has overseen a restructuring of the Marine Operations Team to allow the high quality SFFSL/MES service provision to continue seamlessly. Commenting on the changes, Sheryl said:

“Greg Wood has been promoted to Marine Operations Lead, a crucial role in the delivery our of our Guard Vessel and Offshore Personnel services, and the new point of contact for Skipper enquiries.

“Andrew Third has been appointed Marine Assurance Lead in recognition of additional workload responsibilities and his achievement of becoming a CMID Approved Vessel Inspector.

“Andrew Innes is now our Marine Technical Specialist and will continue to provide his invaluable expertise to the Marine Operations Team as well as contributing more widely to the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation policy work.

“We are also very grateful to have Iain Brydon join recently as QHSE Lead, to oversee the company management systems and to provide operational support to Greg.

“Ali Butler’s excellent marketing and design skills completes the Marine Operations Team and our first-rate Support Team always help to ensure smooth sailing ahead. Everyone’s hard work and dedication is much appreciated and with all hands on deck we are full steam ahead into this exciting new phase!”