A new board member has been appointed at an organisation that gives a collective voice for the maritime sector in the south.

Maritime UK Solent has appointed Mike Sellers, Portsmouth International Port director, to the board as a non-executive director.

This comes as Alastair Welch, regional director at Associated British Ports (ABP), steps down after serving on the board since Maritime UK Solent's inception.

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Anne-Marie Mountifield, chair of Maritime UK Solent, said: "Having this expertise from Alastair, and now Mike, on the board of Maritime UK Solent is invaluable as we navigate global challenges, changes, and opportunities which impact so significantly on our coastal communities.

"A very warm welcome to Mike, who brings with him a lifetime of experience from a career in ports and shipping."

Mr Sellers joined Portsmouth International Port as director in 2017, having spent 20 years at ABP in the north and north-east of England.

He was also chair of the British Ports Association from 2023 to 2025.

Mr Sellers said: "It’s an exciting time to be involved with Maritime UK Solent as innovation takes centre stage to drive the industry forward, bringing together private, public and research institutes to continue this valuable work."