The organisation also bestowed its first ever ‘life membership’ on Britain’s charismatic SOSREP. Describing the award to your correspondent the SOSREP said that he was, ‘Blown away by the award, the life membership, and the welcome I received from the ISU.’

His post is virtually unique in the maritime world and not a job for the faint hearted. The appointment was made in 1999 as part of the Government's response to Lord Donaldson's review of salvage, intervention and command and control following the serious pollution threats posed by the ‘Braer’ and ‘Sea Empress’ groundings, and carries with it awesome powers.

At the heart of Lord Donaldson's recommendation was the perceived need for a single representative to oversee, control and if necessary intervene and exercise ‘ultimate command and control’, acting in the over-riding interest of the UK in salvage operations within UK waters involving vessels or offshore installations where there is significant risk of pollution. Since taking up the post Robin Middleton has dealt with approximately 500 incidents concerned with the safety of the British coastline. In the recent and ongoing incident concerning the ‘MSC Napoli’, he has been faced with some of the most difficult decisions of all and once again his positive action almost certainly averted a serious threat of pollution in the English Channel.

Robin Middleton is an imposing figure with a varied background that includes law enforcement, salvage, diving, emergency planning and local government. Following a reported maritime incident he is involved at every stage using his not inconsiderable presence and experience to good effect when necessary. Throughout his varied career, connections with marine matters and law enforcement have been a prevailing feature.

Some months ago it was reported that Britain’s first SOSREP would retire at the end of this month. At the time of writing his tenure had been extended for one month and a further extension was under discussion. As yet there is no news of his likely replacement. Whatever the final outcome, Robin Middleton will be a very hard act to follow! By Jack Gaston