Celebrating Dedication to Cornwall's Marine Industry

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LEADING Cornish marine industry figures gathered to celebrate Cornwall Marine Network's fifth anniversary at the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth last week.

The network originated as a voluntary group and the special event marked CMN's journey from first acquiring staff five years ago to its current support of more than 300 marine member businesses in Cornwall.

Presentations were given highlighting CMN's specialist training and marketing provision, milestones in its history and future support for members through an expansion of services.

CMN is a not-for-profit organisation which aims to increase the prosperity of Cornwall's vibrant and growing marine industry, which employs more than 14,000 people.

It has won £4.5million for the sector in the last five years, through funding schemes such as Objective One, ESF and ERDF Convergence, and Government mainstream grants.

Paul Wickes, CMN's Chief Executive, said: "We are continuing to develop the specialist services we can provide to members. The skills and marketing support offered by Cornwall Marine Network is at the leading edge of specialist sector network support for businesses in Cornwall and the South West."

Its training models for both employees within marine businesses and for engaging young people into the industry have been upheld as exemplars and are generating interest from sister networks across the South West.

After the presentations, marine businessmen and women enjoyed a chance to network over a glass of wine and slice of birthday cake while overlooking the world's third largest deep-water harbour.

To view more photos from the event and for details about membership benefits please visit http://www.cornwallmarine.net/. If you are a Cornish marine business wishing to join the network please call 01326 211382.

ENDS

July 2010