Retirement triggers concern for port chaplain role

Peter Paine, with his wife Pat and the Mayor of Great Yarmouth Paula Waters-Bunn, marked his retirement after almost 30 years as port chaplain

A port chaplain has retired after more than 25 years service, prompting concerns no successor has yet been appointed.

Great Yarmouth's harbour has had a chaplaincy service almost continually since 1870.

At the retirement party for the Reverend Peter Paine, speakers paid tribute to his work and urged the Mission to Seafarers, a charity which supports crewmen and women, to recruit a new person.

Mission to Seafarers said: "We remain committed to supporting the spiritual and welfare needs of seafarers in the region."

High Steward of Great Yarmouth Henry Cator said Mr Paine had given "the most amazing commitment" to the Mission to Seafarers

The High Steward of Great Yarmouth, Henry Cator, led a series of speeches paying tribute to Mr Paine.

He said of the chaplaincy service: "We've got to try and make sure it continues, but it's always a challenge to find people who want to have that commitment.

"Peter has given the most amazing commitment to the Mission to Seafarers for over 30 years.

"This mission is a testament to a community standing by its town, the seamen, and the visitors and its fishermen."

Mayor of Great Yarmouth Paula Waters-Bunn said the role was desperately needed within the community.

Richard Goffin, director of Peel Ports Great Yarmouth, paid tribute to Mr Paine's service: "We wish him the very best for a long, leisurely and well-earned retirement, and hope that the mission is able to secure a successor soon."

Mr Paine said he always strived to meet the welfare needs of seafarers visiting Great Yarmouth

Steve Morgan, the Mission to Seafarers' regional director for Europe, said: "His commitment to maritime ministry has been invaluable. He has served those who work tirelessly at sea for the benefit of all of us."

Mr Paine said: "This is the best job. Out in the fresh air every day helping people who need help; praying with them; just being a friend to people who are so far away from home.

"It's not hard [but] it is onerous. You get called out all times of day or night, but that's part of the job."