Three Pembrokeshire brothers who are focusing on local markets to add value to their fish catch have a royal seal of approval from the Prince of Wales.

Lee Clarke, who runs a fishing business at Porthgain with his brothers, Roger and Nicholas, met Prince Charles during his recent tour of Pembrokeshire when they discussed the sustainability of the Welsh fishing industry.

“He was very interested in our plans to sell more of our fish locally instead of shipping it overseas,” Lee explained.

The brothers launched their initiative at Porthgain during Pembrokeshire Fish Week when hundreds of local people and visitors tasted fresh crab, lobster, bass and mackerel cooked in the open air by their cousin, professional chef Shirley McElhinney.

They were delighted with the response.

“We have had some very encouraging comments which gives us confidence that there is a good market for adding value to our catch locally,” said Roger.

The Clarkes are among the first to benefit from the new Cywain Fisheries initiative, which aims to encourage the Welsh fishing industry to develop new products and markets for fish.

Cywain Fisheries gives the industry access to support, facilitation, expert advice and a high quality mentoring service.

Lee says the initiative has provided the business with the knowledge, signposting and the support it required to expand.

“We hope in this new venture to add value to our catch, which at present is sent to the continent at a lower price,” he said.

Rob Cumine, who mentors the Clarkes, says the brothers will launch a website this month – www.porthgainshellfish.com – to enable orders to be placed online. The brothers will only sell seafood they have caught themselves.

“Locals can pre-order and collect their order from a tank that will be positioned next to The Sloop Inn at Porthgain, while people who have visited on holiday and want to continue that experience when they get home can order and have the fish delivered to their home,” said Rob.

He said there had also been an excellent reaction from local restaurants and hotels.

“There have been numerous requests for samples with some very encouraging feedback,” he added.