Five Suffolk maritime workers scoop East Anglian awards

The East Anglian Maritime Awards (EAMA) follows on from the success of maritime celebrations across the counties of Suffolk, Essex and Norfolk to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

Hugh Barker (first in proficiency), Mathew Perring (conservation), Gordon Royall (proficiency), Tom Curtis (youth ambassador) and Luke Cousins (water safety) from Suffolk became the first recipients of the EAMA awards.

They received the accolades from Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk Lady Clare Euston at a special ceremony held on Wednesday, April 17, at Haven Ports Yacht Club at Suffolk Yacht Harbour in Levington, near Ipswich. All received an EAMA T-shirt and a certificate.

Norfolk and Essex are hosting similar events in their counties.

Jonathan Dyke of Suffolk Yacht Harbour explained some of the history of Suffolk Yacht Harbour before Roy Clare, chairman of EAMA, announced the winners.

"We are across three counties," he said. "We had 108 entries from a standing start."

They were "investing in the young", he said, adding: "I do think this has been fun to do."

Lady Clare - along with Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk Jenny Tolhurst - came up with the idea of a Platinum Jubilee maritime celebration two years ago.

Organisers decided to follow the successful event with a celebration of the three counties' maritime sector through an awards event highlighting the achievements of young people involved in the industry.

Tom Curtis is based in Pin Mill and is a traditional wooden boat builder specialising in working boats.

Mathew Perring joined the team at traditional Lowestoft fishing smack Excelsior as a volunteer in 2022 and became relief bosun after showing expertise in wooden boat maintenance. The boat was restored and has featured in a number of TV and film productions.

"His contribution to the recommissioning of the historic Yarmouth Shrimper Horace and Hannah earned high recognition," said judges.

"Mathew's unwavering commitment and leadership inspire both colleagues and young sailors alike."

Gordon Royall started as a volunteer at Excelsior aged 17 and became an "invaluable" deckhand. He went on to become a deckhand with Njord Crew Transfer Vessels. He "epitomises dedication and passion for sailing", said judges.

Hugh Barker of Pin Mill was on track to complete a joinery apprenticeship at Spirit Yachts in Ipswich when the pandemic struck. He adapted by setting up a successful window cleaning and house maintenance business.

He was described as a "resilient and hard-working individual" who showed dedication and selflessness.

"Despite facing personal challenges, he maintains a positive attitude and brings a smile to his work every day," said EAMA. 

"His contribution to maritime repairs, including the meticulous re-caulking of sailing barge Dawn's Decks demonstrates his exceptional skill and dedication."

Luke Cousins started as a boat-building student and became an integral member of Demon Yachts' team. He is an active member of Slaughden Sailing Club in Aldeburgh, running powerboat courses and taking part in sailing events.

"With a decade of experience under his belt, he adeptly manages the yard's operations while consistently going above and beyond to assist customers," EAMA said.

He also volunteers with the RNLI in Aldeburgh and leads training exercises as well as participating in search and rescue missions.

"His unwavering dedication to maritime activities along the East Coast, particularly in Aldeburgh, is truly commendable."

EAMA committee members Roy Clare, Stephen Fletcher, Claire Scott and Yvonne Curtis were joined by event sponsors Simon Smart, chief executive of Maritime Transport, and Sarah West of the Harwich Haven Authority and guests representing a range of maritime organisations.

Lady Clare said it was exciting "to see all these wondering ideas come to fruition" and "absolutely thrilling" to  see young people embracing Suffolk's maritime industry. "All that excitement has led to this exceptional idea," she said.