Profile

Our manager Joe has a background in marine biology from Plymouth University and a master in Marine Bio from the Marine Biology Association. Joe has a wealth of experience having previously worked as a lobster fisherman, for the fisheries authority (NEIFCA) and various underwater jobs around the globe. Having worked previously as a commercial scallop diver on the south coast and a lobster fisherman here in Whitby, Joe make use of his qualifications and industry experience resulting in a diverse set of skills that includes hands-on practicality, project management and communications. His mission is to combine his academic & conservation background with sustainable commercial fishing, helping the sustainability and resilience of our coast well into the future. Joe has been with the project from its inception, helping to build the project from its early shoots. Favourite species: Lobsters, of course!

Profile

Joe has had a life-long interest in the ocean, particularly the life that inhabits our local seas. He studied marine biology at Newcastle University, where he gained a wide variety of knowledge, skills and understanding of the native marine environment of the North East. In the summer of 2023, he started volunteering at the hatchery weekly - learning the ins and outs of aquaculture systems and lobster care. He now works here, overseeing lobster larvae from hatch to release. Working alongside our brilliant volunteers, he ensures that our little lobsters are as happy and healthy as they can be! Favourite species: Blue shark

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Amber began her journey with the Whitby Lobster Hatchery as a dedicated volunteer and quickly became an invaluable member of the team. With a degree in Biochemistry from the University of Leeds, a strong problem-solving mindset, and a genuine passion for marine conservation, Amber brings both practical skill and fresh thinking to everything she does. Her studies allowed her to understand biological processes at the cellular level and sparked a keen interest in microscopy. Outside the hatchery, she plays hockey for Whitby, reflecting the same teamwork, commitment, and energy she brings to her role with us. Favourite Marine Animal: The Spiny Squat Lobster

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Linda Wild is the chair of our trustee board with a wealth of experiences across many fields, bringing a professional, considerate and determined factor to the board. Having served as a past Mayor of Whitby, Member of Whitby Town Deal Board and Whitby Town Council representative on Harbour Users Consultative Group, Linda has Whitby and especially Whitby harbour at the centre of her focus. Committing many hours to help steer and improve the town for generations to come. Linda is also the chair of Trustee of United Charities plus a keen photographer and observer of all things harbour and maritime related.

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Marcus Mills is a PwC‑trained chartered accountant and experienced CFO. He supports charities and mission‑led organisations with strong financial governance, risk management and sustainable decision‑making. He loves the outdoors and enjoys nothing more than hiking the Yorkshire coast.

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Local fisherman operating a potting fishing vessel, Nazanna, out of Whitby harbour. Adrain supplies his family owned wet fish shop in Baxtergate which was the first member of our 'Buy One Release One' scheme.

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Tobyn is a care home entrepreneur and finance professional with a long-standing love of the Yorkshire coast. Passionate about sustainability and the future of Whitby’s fishing heritage, he is proud to support the Whitby Lobster Hatchery’s work in protecting lobster stocks for future generations.

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James Cole is Chairman of Whitby's Commercial Fishing Association. James comes from a long line of commercial Whitby fishermen. Currently he is the skipper of Good Intent which operates out of Whitby harbour and is one of the 4 boats permitted to land berried hens to our hatchery. James sees the hatchery project as one measure which will underpin the commercial fishing industry in Whitby and help to ensure the longevity of the ocean into the future.

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Mike is a Whitby harbour veteran, with over 30 years experience saving lives at sea with the RNLI. Mike now works as an integral part of Whitby's fishing industry managing the fish quay and merchant tanks. Mike's invaluable experience with aquaculture and knowledge of the fishing industry makes him a great member of the team.