New book details history and development of Bressay factory

A new book detailing the history of the Bressay fish products factory was launched this week and will go on sale shortly.

The Heogan Story was written by James H Tulloch, better known as “Hebbie”, former manager of Herring By Products Ltd which is now Shetland Fish Products.

Launched at Monty’s Bistro in Lerwick on Thursday evening, it includes many details about the history and development of the fish meal and oil factory.

Mr Tulloch was employed at the factory for 31 years, working his way up from tea boy to manager. After some encouragement from a friend, he decided to put his years of experience and knowledge of the factory down on paper.

He said: “This book covers the past, present and future of the Heogan factory. From the outset 130 years ago, it covers the ever changing scene and developments, right up to the modern well-equipped factory and facilities of today.”

Four years ago a consortium (comprising Shetland Catch, Lerwick Port Authority, Shetland Fish Producers and Seafood Shetland) took over the factory and currently processes trimmings from the Shetland Catch factory and the various salmon and white fish processing plants.

Mr Tulloch added: “I also reflect on the development and changes at Heogan since my time there and share some of my thoughts as to what the future may hold for the factory.”

The book includes extracts from previous employees, pictures from throughout the years as well as some small stories and humorous events which have been added to give readers a more personal insight.

Shetland Fish Products board chairman John Goodlad was one of those present at the launch. He said: “I am delighted that Hebbie has chosen to write a book on the Heogan factory. There are few companies in Shetland which have such a long history, so it is great to see that the past events are now well documented.”

Mr Goodlad thanked everyone, from shareholders, directors, management, staff and suppliers, who had helped make the business such a success.

The book, priced at £16.75, was published by Mr Tulloch himself, printed by The Shetland Times and will shortly be available from the Shetland Times Bookshop.