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Islanders Recognised At Inaugural Maritime UK Solent Awards

Islanders have been recognised for their tireless community contributions at the inaugural Maritime UK Solent Awards.

Red Funnel Customer Service Assistant Nell Clare was named Employee of the Year, while East Cowes company Datum Electronics won both the Innovation and Employer of the Year accolades.

A ceremony was held at the Leonardo Royal Southampton Grand Harbour Hotel on Friday evening (15).

Nell received the accolade in recognition of her outstanding and compassionate support in assisting medically vulnerable passengers with their ferry travel arrangements to and from the Isle of Wight.

She said:

“This is really such an honour, and I am very proud to accept the ‘Employee of the Year’ Maritime UK Solent Award on behalf of Red Funnel.

"What I do is supported by a wider team of colleagues, so I really want to recognise them too.

Fran Collins, Chief Executive of Red Funnel, added:

“We are incredibly proud, Nell always goes above and beyond to serve our passengers with exceptional customer service.

“This prize is a well-deserved accolade for Nell and champions our ethos at Red Funnel."

Around 250 maritime experts attended the evening alongside industry leaders who gathered to show their commitment to the future of the sector.

East Cowes manufacturer, Datum Electronics, celebrated as they were announced winner of the Innovation and Employer of the Year awards.

James Lees, Managing Director of the company, said:

“Being recognised as a Top performing Company by the Solent LEP through the Maritime UK Solent Awards is truly an honour and accomplishment to be proud of.

"I’m thrilled the hard work of our team and partners has been recognised by industry experts as truly cutting edge and sector leading."

The Lord Mayor of Southampton, Jacqui Rayment, who attended the ceremony, said:

“I was delighted to see Datum winning two awards — they (are) one of the best companies in the industry.

"They were worthy winners and I wish them all the best going forward.”

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