SOUTH Hams Council is seeking applications from members of the public for the Salcombe Harbour Board.

The board comprises of four elected councillors and six co-opted independent members of the public.

The Salcombe-Kingsbridge estuary - Salcombe harbour - is a local authority port set in one of the most beautiful parts of the south west.

As a recreational and leisure port, it hosts nearly 6,000 visiting vessels every year in addition to its many resident vessels - including an active shell fishing fleet which exports around the world.

The harbour has a rich and diverse natural and historic heritage and is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a local nature reserve. In 2014, it was granted eco-port status by the European Sea Ports Organisation.

Over the next five years, the district council plan to transform the harbour to ensure that it remains fit for the future while remaining financially and environmentally sustainable.

A spokesperson for South Hams Council said: ‘We have several upcoming vacancies. If you have the commitment, passion, knowledge and enthusiasm to make a positive and lasting impression on the future of the harbour, then you’d be an ideal candidate.

‘You don’t need to be a boat owner, nor have any financial or economic ties to the harbour, however you would be expected to be aware of the issues and challenges that come with managing a harbour.

‘The harbour board meets six times a year during working hours - normally on a Monday afternoon - at locations around the estuary. Although the posts are not remunerated, refreshments are provided at meetings and reasonable travel expenses are reimbursed. Board appointments ordinarily last for three years, but may be extended by mutual agreement.

To apply for a position on the harbour board, please contact the harbour master by phone on 01548 843791, or email [email protected].

The closing date for applications is Friday, April 29, with interviews expected to take place around 12-13 May.