FORMER coastguard Jim Power has been appointed to boost the team which oversees the safety of boat movements in Poole Harbour.

He has joined the team of five harbour control officers employed by Poole Harbour Commissioners.

“It’s a very interesting and varied role, no two days are ever the same,” he said. “A bit like air traffic control for the water; we are responsible for the passenger ferry traffic as well as commercial and leisure boat movements, ensuring they all manoeuvre around each other safely.

“We make reports on boat crime, collisions, threats and any other issues which potentially affect the harbour.

“It’s a beautiful outlook from harbour control at the port however and our 12-hour shifts mean you can enjoy the amazing sunrises and sunsets all in a day’s work.”

He was at sea for 30 years with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary as a navigator and operations officer, worked for ferry company Channel Island Ship Management and more recently was a Portland coastguard.

Harbour Master, Captain Brian Murphy said: “We are pleased to have Jim on board who brings complimentary skills and experience to what is a challenging yet vital part of PHC’s work in the harbour.

“Knowing the safety of boat movement is in good hands is a reassurance to all harbour users.”