A NEW fish processor is opening its doors for business in Peel.

Lewis Seafoods, owned by Nicky and Wendy Lewis, have taken on a unit in the town’s Mill Road Yard and fitted it out for the processing of crab and lobster.

Wendy is well known in the catering trade in the island having previously operated Shellweighs in Jurby- providing potted crab meat to cafes and restaurants across the island. Her husband Nicky is a crab and lobster fisherman based in Peel giving her access to the best and freshest produce.

This will be helped by the installation of a vivier tank – a specialist tank designed to hold live lobsters until they are ready for market.

The growth of her business will see a doubling in the volume processed and an expansion of the number of employees to up to five.

Opening the facility, Mrs Clare Christian MLC said, “The fishing and fish processing industries play a valuable role in the economy of the island, and nowhere moreso than here in Peel.

“This project is an excellent example of how we can capitalise on the catch by transforming it into higher value produce. We in the Department of Economic Development are delighted to have helped in this development.

“For generations Mill Road Yard has been the engine that drives the Peel economy,” said Peel MHK Tim Crookall.

“The jobs and wealth created here yield benefits across the town. It is great to know that the fish processing sector is in good heart and investing for the future so that it can continue to play that role.”