Hull’s fishing history and heritage was told through the memories of a present day Trawlerman who paid a visit to Mountview School in Hull.

Gordon devised a fictional character based on thorough research, knowledge of the industry its communities and oral history interviews previously conducted. The brief was to talk to a classroom of children with behavioural difficulties about Hull’s Fishing History from the persepective of someone who was a part of the fishing community.

Gordon devised a modern day character who had been fishing since the 1970’s when old fashioned side trawlers were still in use and stern trawlers were being introduced.

The character ‘Billy Butler’ still went fishing, but was now a member of the crew of the super trawler ‘The Kirk Ella’. He told stories about his life at sea and that of his parents who were also part of the fishing communities. 

Handling resources were used, including models, tools and costume as well as activities such as colouring in, role play and dressing up to help the children (aged between 9 and 12) to experience different learning styles.