Donated every penny to the Salvation Army

The queue only got longer and longer as the clock approached 10:00 a.m. It was clear that people in town had noticed that there were crayfish for sale on the quay – and that on Lucia Day itself.

“I will live on this joy for a few days here,” says shark fisherman Espen Marø Farstad. In recent years, he has donated a day's income from wharf sales to charity before Christmas.

– It is about life and health

Farstad says he does it for two reasons:  

– The first is about life and health. We never know what life will be like, and who will struggle to make ends meet. Maybe it's you or I who will need initiatives like Varmestuen? I think they do important work, and I want to support them.

– The second is that I want to thank the city and all the customers I have had during the year.

– It means a lot

The proceeds go to the Salvation Army's Warming Room in Ålesund, which is a regular meeting point for many who are struggling with their lives. For over 30 years, "Stua" has been a welcome place for those struggling with substance abuse, mental health problems or other challenges, and is filled with people who want a social community.

– Today's collection means a lot! Then we will be able to help even more people, and not just at Christmas, but throughout the year. Espen is incredibly generous and warm-hearted to do this. I really have no words, says Britt Roald Nesvik, who is the activity manager for Varmestuen.

– Not many like Espen

Vigdis Torheim from Surofi was also present at the dock. She says that they are happy to double the amount that was collected.

– We think this is a fantastic initiative, and it goes to an important cause. Imagine Espen giving away a whole day's salary. Not many people do that.

Read also: Long queue for fresh crabs on the quay from the shark Snøgg (with video)