LARGE numbers of fish are being driven out of the North Sea because of global warming, scientists claimed last night.

British researchers claim that some species could be driven out of the region entirely by 2050.

Scientists claim fish on the move include important varieties such as cod, sole and whiting.

They found that 15 of 36 species had moved due to warming between 1997 and 2001. Between 1962 and 2001, the North Sea warmed 0.6C, and average surface temperatures are predicted to rise by 0.5C to 1C by 2020, 1C to 2.5C by 2050, and 1.5C to 4C by 2080.

The claims were rubbished by Scarborough skipper Fred Normandale, who said he feared the study could be used to force more cuts on the beleaguered industry.

He said: "The figures are five years out of date. We and the scientists have been well aware that there has been a shortage of species like cod.

"If people listen to this kind of thing, they will ask how can fish be protected and this industry will be hit again."

But fourth-generation fisherman Dave Horsley, from Hartlepool, welcomed the new research.

Mr Horsley, 60, who retired two years ago, said: "It's about time scientists blamed something else other than fishermen over-fishing for the depletion in the stocks."

Mr Horsley, a trawlerman for 45 years, said crews have found their own evidence of global warming.

Many boats, he said, are reporting huge catches of squid and octopus, while species such as cod are becoming more difficult to land.