Stamford mariner to receive prestigious naval medal from the Princess Royal
A former Stamfordian has been honoured with a prestigious naval award for more than 40 years of service on the seas.
Captain Nicholas Spencer, chief volunteer officer of the Maritime Volunteer Service, has been awarded the Merchant Navy Medal for services to shipping and the maritime community.
The medal has a Royal Warrant and is a state award recognising exemplary service.
Capt Spencer, who grew up in Stamford before leaving for naval school, rose to the position of master mariner and was commended for saving life at sea while commanding a search and rescue operation off the port of Dublin.
During his career at sea, he was asked by P&O Ferries to implement a new safety code, and was influential in the development of the Welsh port of Mostyn.
Recommendations were also made for his work with the Sea Cadets and maritime charity Trinity House.
Capt Spencer, 76, who lives in East Yorkshire, is due to receive the award from the HRH Princess Royal next summer.