Aberdeen-based PCL Group is helping secure Scotland’s fishing heritage after making a donation to the Wick Society to support the ongoing preservation of 126-year old fishing vessel Isabella Fortuna for the next 12 months.
Built by James Weir of Arbroath for local skipper John Smith, Isabella Fortuna was the largest yawl in the harbour when she was launched on 15th September 1890. For the next 86 years she was a working fishing vessel for successive generations of the Smith family until she was bought by the Wick Society in 1997.
Restored by the Society, she was a popular visitor to the recent Portsoy Boat Festival where PCL Group and its CEO Jeanette Forbes hosted 875 clients and festival visitors during the two-day event.
Jeanette, founder of PCL Group, a total cabling and IT service provider to the offshore, marine, commercial, industrial and renewables sectors, grew up in the fishing industry.
“My grandparents owned a very established wholesale fish-merchants business in Halifax, Yorkshire, and at age 12 I used to help them by placing orders for the fish from Peterhead, Fraserburgh and Aberdeen,” she said. “The fishing industry is part of my background and very close to my heart so when I heard about Isabella Fortuna I wanted to help. Fishing plays a significant role in Scotland’s economy and it’s essential that we preserve that rich heritage for the future.”
Alan Miller, Secretary of the Society’s Boat Section, said they are completely dependent on donations for the continuing preservation of Isabella Fortuna.
“The Wick Society is overwhelmed by the kind donation given by Jeanette Forbes and PCL Group towards the upkeep and on-going maintenance of the Isabella Fortuna,” he said. “Jeanette is very passionate about the preservation of the boat and her input both financially and professionally has been of great support to crew and volunteers who are involved in this on-going project.
“Her enthusiasm was evident at the recent Portsoy Boat Festival where PCL employees provided corporate hospitality. Invited guests and visitors alike enjoyed a reception of drinks, canapés and entertainment aboard the boat. Not only a great experience, for visitors but a very enjoyable and memorable day for our crew and volunteers.”
Visitors who boarded Isabella Fortuna during her visit to Portsoy donated an additional £938 towards the Society.