The man at the helm of the multi award-winning Chatham Historic Dockyard for the past two decades, is to retire.

Chief executive Bill Ferris has overseen the turnaround success of the top visitor attraction.

During his tenure, he has played a major role in securing the long-term future of the venue which, when he arrived, faced significant financial challenges with its reputation at an all-time low.

The accountant, who was appointed in December 2000, will step down later this year.

In recognition of his services to heritage, Mr Ferris was appointed Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honour's List in 2011 and made a Deputy Lieutenant of Kent in January 2016.

One of his major achievements was the refurbishment and conversion of the Grade I-listed Fitted Rigging House, thanks to a £4.8 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

He was also behind the prize-winning Commands of the Ocean project and the No 1 Smithery, now a state-of-the art exhibition gallery.

He was heavily involved in tourist attractions including A Day at the Wells at the Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, and the White Cliffs Experience, Dover.

The dad-of two will retain his links with the National Lottery Fund, Visit Kent and as a champion for Medway Council's City of Culture 2025 bid.

The 61-year-old is looking forward to spending more time following his passion of mountain climbing, fishing and skiiing.

And he will spend more time with his family, including sons Tom, 32, and Andy, 30, as well as his one-year-old grandaughter.

Mr Ferris, who is married to fellow accountant Honor, believes his success has been down to "balance".

He said: "Through a careful balance of commercial tenancy, tourism and residential, today the dockyard is home to a thriving community of 115 houses, over 110 businesses and organisations, including the University of Kent and its 800 students, 190,000 visitors annually and it supports over 900 jobs.

"These combined activities generate in excess of £29 million to the local economy each year.

"These substantial preservation projects have transformed the once dilapidated, post-industrial, former naval base into a flourishing mixed-use heritage estate, at the heart of Medway’s regeneration.

Commenting on his decision to retire, he added: “I consider my time here to have been a privilege.

"I want to pay particular tribute to the three chairmen I have served and to the trustees who have been a constant inspiration from day one.

"It is a fact that it’s the people involved with this great place, along with the spirit of partnership and mutual support that has led to the success we see today.

Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust chairman Sir Trevor Soar said: “We have faced enormous challenges and Bill has never been afraid to make key decisions.

"His drive for excellence and entrepreneurial thinking, underpinned by carefully considered charitable choices, has been central to our development. He has played an instrumental role in making the trust the financially sustainable charity it is today.

"I am personally grateful for the outstanding leadership, endless contribution and selfless commitment which Bill has given during his tenure.

"He leaves the trust in an exceptionally strong position and has laid the groundwork for what will come."

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