Sea Farms pair make shortlist

Shetland-based Martin Mladenov works as a husbandryman at Holmes and Teisti Geo fish farms, while Hayley Eccles is a freshwater technician at Couldoran .

Hayley (31) was nominated by her course tutor Murray Stark and was delighted to hear that she had made it to the finals.

“I never expected anything like this as it has been such a benefit to me just doing the course. I feel that I have really found my career now after many years working in retail which was not nearly so well rewarded. I understand that there are only three finalists in the aquaculture category so I am thrilled to be in with a chance.”

 Shetland Site Manager Robbie Coutts nominated Martin and said: “Martin is a very motivated worker who is always ready to try new challenges, one of these being moving to Shetland to start his career journey with us.” 

Martin (29) is originally from Bulgaria and was surprised to be nominated but delighted with his recognition from the awards.

“This is a great feeling to know that all my hard work has been noticed and to make the final is just brilliant. It has really motivated me and makes me want to strive towards my ambition of one day becoming a site manager,” he reflected.

Martin’s achievements are all the more impressive given that he spoke limited English when he joined Scottish Sea Farms and signed on as a Modern Apprentice. He has now completed his Level 3 qualification, gained a workboat skipper qualification and his powerboat Level 2, becoming an accomplished boatman.

The winners of this year’s Lantra awards will be announced on 3rd March.