Over the course of more than 500 years, Brighton grew from a small village to one of the main fishing towns in the south of England, with most men employed in fishing and allied trades. However, over time, the trade declined for a number of reasons and now no longer exists.I tell the story of this rise and fall, outlining some colourful characters and unusual facts.

Friends of St Michael and All Angels - quarterly newsletter Feb 2025

It was cold outside but that didn’t deter 60 Friends from turning up to enjoy an amusing and informative talk by Brian Ogilvie from Brighton’s Fishing Museum. A welcoming glass of prosecco followed by a delicious fish and chips supper set the tone for the evening where Friends gathered along beautifully decorated sea-themed tables.

Brian began his talk by admitting that he was ‘the worst fisherman in the world’ but this hasn’t affected his fascination and support for the museum over the years. He told us that Brighton first became known as a fishing town more than 1000 years ago when the growing population of 3-4000 people needed feeding, and the sea was teeming with fish. It became an important part of the local economy, peaking in 1580 with 80 boats, 400 marines and 1000 nets. The industry remained prosperous until the great storms of 1703 and 1705 brought the loss of houses, windmills and boats and heralded its decline along with Brighton in general. The town recovered and over the years became a fashionable resort but fishing continued to diminish and although it still exists today it’s no longer a primary industry.

Brian’s fascinating talk included a mini sing-song and a jokey quiz where one lucky Friend won a jar of his wife’s legendary whiskey marmalade. He received a bottle of wine as thanks and a promise that there would very likely be a stream of fascinated Friends visiting the Fishing Museum in the near future.