Free training courses will soon be on offer to Southend's fishing industry, thanks to a £21,000 handout from the European Union.

The cash will be used to spearhead a new programme of practical skills training, run in partnership with South East Essex College and Prospects Business Technology.

The courses will include:

First aid at work

Forklift truck training

Information technology training

Food hygiene awareness

Welding

The specialist sessions are designed to increase skills in the highly-seasonal industry.

Rosalyn Jack, an economic development officer with Southend Council said: "All the courses are tailor-made for the fishing industry and mean that the community will be able to learn in the environment close to them, rather than have to travel to college.

"We really hope that many fishermen and their employees will take up these free training opportunities."

Peter Wexham, a former Leigh fisherman who represents the town on the borough council, has urged people to sign up.

He said: "I welcome anything that helps and maintains the fishing industry in the town.

"It gives the fishing community a chance to learn new skills and gives them a new string to their bow."

Anyone interested in the courses can call 01702 220400.

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