Although fishing for food is as old as mankind itself, Brixham can rightly claim to be the mother of today's modern fishing industry.

As far back as 1898, just 17 years after the Fishermen's Mission was founded, it was mooted that the Mission should open a Centre in Brixham.        After much discussion and lobbying, it was in 1901 that the Queen Victoria Memorial Institute of the Fishermen's Mission was opened.    From then up until 1946 the Fishermen's Mission watched over and cared for the fishermen and their families from this port.       Sadly, due to the downturn in the industry and lack of funding to bring the then Mission building up to a reasonable standard, the Mission reluctantly closed. 

However, there was always a feeling that one day we would return and by the early 1980's, there was a core of local fishermen and friends that were determined to see the Mission once again watching over the Brixham fishermen.           Thanks to a successful �1/4 million appearl, on 21st May 1986, the present building was finally opened.

For the last 25 years  our anniversary has been celebrated and successive Superintendents have ensured that whenever there has been an accident or disaster to any of our boats or fishermen, there has always been someone on hand to help, support or advise.     History recalls the many tragedies that have occurred in and around the Port and we have been there to help as our industry has struggled from one crisis to another.      We have seen the closure of fisheries, reduction in days at sea, restriction on what can be caught, and now, the dramatic hike in fuel prices.      Yet despite all of this, one thing has remained constant, the Fishermen's Mission has always been there for  the fishermen and their families.

True always to it's founding motto, "Preach the word.     Heal the sick,"     the Fishermen's Mission has always sought to bring relief and comfort to any who have needed it.    With no state aid, relying on income it can generate, and the goodwill of supporters around the country, the Brixham Mission stands as a beacon watching over the fishing industry in this area.  

We are delighted that FishstockBrixham has been organised with support to the Brixham Mission as it's aim, and we wish the event every success and trust that all visitors will take the time to learn something about our industry and our town.  

From Superintendent Len Scott,  Port Missioner   (Brixham)