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NETS PLACED IN RESRTICTED AREA
A Pembrokeshire fisherman received a twelve month conditional discharge from Haverfordwest magistrates this week for setting fixed nets in a prohibited area of the Daugleddau River.

On 5 January the Court heard that Trevor Mark Pepperell of 4 Greenway, Hook was observed fishing a net near Lawrenny Quay on 30 November 2005. When challenged by Fishery Officers he claimed to have an immemorial right to be fishing. A further inspection revealed the net to be 65 metres longer than the 100 allowed for an unregistered boat.

Contesting the charges in a two part trial, Mr Pepperell relied upon provisions within Salmon acts dating back to the 1860s in an attempt to demonstrate that the net used was of a type and method practised around Langwm for centuries. Such fishing practices were protected against later restrictions introduced to prevent the interception of salmon, he argued.

Having changed his plea to the charge regarding the length of his net, Mr Pepperell was found guilty also of using an unauthorised net. In addition to the sentence he was ordered to pay £250 prosecution costs.