Port of Tyne Appoints New Harbour Master

The Port of Tyne in North East England has appointed Captain Alan McPherson as Harbour Master, responsible for all aspects of marine conservancy and the safety of navigation on the River Tyne.

A Master Mariner with a career of over ten years in the Merchant Navy, Alan joined the Port of Tyne in April 2001 as Marine Officer Pilot and successfully completed a series of training assessments to become the Port’s first Unlimited Class Pilot. He was appointed Port of Tyne Deputy Harbour Master in 2004.

Alan said: “Having lived in the area for over 25 years, I fully understand the importance of the River Tyne to the region and the wider community. I have been fortunate to serve as a Pilot on this great river, and now have the honour of being the Harbour Master too.”

“I am looking forward to working with all of our stakeholders and other river users as the Port continues to invest in infrastructure and capability that will support and deliver a vibrant future for the river.”

Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne Chief Executive Officer, said: “Alan brings a huge amount of experience and professionalism to the role and I look forward to working with him as we seek to grow Port capacity and expand our operational berths.”

Alan is a Director and Trustee of the Tyne Lifeboat Society, an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute and a member in training at Trinity House Newcastle.

With over 25 years of experience in the marine industry during his time at the Port of Tyne Alan has been involved with many marine projects such as the Tall Ships visit 2005, and the pilotage of some of the most complex shipping movements on the Tyne including the QE2, Ark Royal and the Holland America Line cruise ship Eurodam.