Tesco has launched a trial to sell seafood caught by vessels operating under the Responsible Fishing Scheme.

Sardines, sprats and scallops sourced from RFS-certified boats are being sold on Tesco fish counters in the south west, with the RFS logo displayed alongside the fish to flag up the scheme.

"This is a great opportunity to show we are sourcing our seafood responsibly," said Tesco south west regional marketing manager Jo Wren.

Under the scheme, fishing vessels are independently audited against a British Standards Institution specification that lays down criteria for crew competence, fishing practices, environmental considerations and vessel management.

Seafish hoped the trial would be replicated in other stores throughout the country, said development director Jon Harman.