AFTER twelve years of distinguished service — six years as a commissioner and six years as chairman — Rob Wing has retired as chairman of Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (NP&HC).

In this latter role, he has steered Newlyn through some choppy waters but there has been many positive developments during his tenure. 

On his watch, Newlyn Fish Market has been transformed to provide a modern, fully refrigerated facility with an online clock auction; the long-standing relationship between NP&HC and W Stevenson & Sons as Newlyn Fish Market’s auctioneer has been formalised, signifying a new era, and significant funding to build a new Marine Skills & Resource Centre has been achieved through a competitive bidding process. 

The administration and management of Newlyn Harbour has also been completely revolutionised and many operational changes have ensued, including the provision of electricity to the quays and the installation of a refuelling station. Most significantly, a return to profitability under his leadership has enabled continuing investment in the Port, aligned with an ambitious strategic plan.  

Rob’s passion for the Cornish fishing industry has been demonstrated on many occasions during visits to Newlyn Harbour by senior UK government officials. 

He has kept a steady hand on the tiller during the challenges of COVID-19, Brexit, and navigating new political landscapes, and has spoken out in support of Newlyn’s hardworking fishing community whenever the opportunity has arisen. 

“It has been an absolute privilege to serve Newlyn as the focal point of the fishing industry in Cornwall and the south west,” said Rob. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Commissioners and Newlyn Harbour staff for all their support along the way – we have won some, we have lost some, but we have achieved a lot and have a great team to take things forward. 

“During my time as chairman, I hope there has been sensitivity in modernising and improving port facilities whilst recognising the needs of the 21st century fishing industry, which faces very challenging times. 

“I am really sad to leave because being a commissioner and chairman of NP&HC was my way of giving something back to the industry I love and to which I owe my living but it is time to hand over the baton.

“I wish my successor, Paul Durkin as well as my former, fellow commissioners, the very best in charting Newlyn’s course towards an ever-more prosperous future for the benefit of the local community, Cornwall and the British fishing industry.” 

New chairman Paul Durkin paid tribute to Rob at a lunch held at the Tolcarne Inn to celebrate his retirement. He was presented with a model of a fishing vessel crafted by Newlyn Copper.