SHETLAND Tall Ships has appointed retired police officer Martyn Brill as Chief Liaison Officer for the races’ visit to Lerwick next summer.
Martyn, who has lived and worked in Shetland for more than a decade and a half, will oversee the recruitment and support of the team of liaison officers who will be the dedicated point of contact for each of the tall ships due to visit in July 2023.
He spent 15 years working for the police in Shetland before retiring from his Inspector’s role in 2021 – meaning he now has the time to commit to the Chief Liaison Officer role, which is mainly a voluntary position.
Prior to his time in the police, Martyn held a communications role in the Royal Navy, travelling extensively and becoming proficient in Morse code.
Martyn is very active within the local community, taking part in activities such as yoal racing, golf and volunteering with Shetland Folk Festival.
Shetland Tall Ships project manager Emma Miller said: “The experience and community engagement Martyn gained from his role with the police, and also his background in the Navy, give him the perfect skill set we are looking for.
“This is a hugely important role as the liaison team are the first impression the visiting ships’ crews will have of Shetland, and it’s vital they are fully supported to give the warm welcome we know will be given.”
Martyn said that throughout his professional career he had worked alongside “a wide range of people from diverse multicultural backgrounds” and had been able to build positive relationships.
“My passion for involvement in maritime activities has developed further while living in Shetland and this role gives me the perfect opportunity to combine my skill sets with my hobby,” he said.
“I’m delighted to be involved and look forward to recruiting and meeting my team.”
The Tall Ships Races event will see nearly 100 liaison officers being recruited alongside additional volunteers for various roles.
At a recent event marking one year until the Lerwick event takes place, Martyn met several past liaison officers who have expressed an interest in taking part in 2023.
Recruitment for officers and volunteers will begin in late September. Anyone who wishes to register an interest before then can do so here: www.tallshipslerwick.com/get-involved