There will be a change at the helm of the multi-award winning National Maritime Museum Cornwall next year when its current chairman, Ellen Winser, steps down and is replaced by Peter Davies.

Ellen, who has steered the museum since 2002, supported by the trustees, staff and volunteers, has made the decision to stand-down knowing that her commitment and chairmanship has helped develop a fully ship-shape and financially stable organisation.

She said: “My time at the museum has been one of the greatest of experiences. Growing the organisation, fulfilling its role as a regeneration project for Falmouth, seeing it achieve award after award and recognition within the museum and visitor attraction world has made me very proud.

“Having helped it get into shape, I am now happy and delighted to hand the chair to Peter Davies whose wealth of experience will bring a different perspective.”

Peter Davies is currently vice chair of the Regional Advisory Board of the National Trust and has previously been chair of trustees at the Hall for Cornwall, a non-executive director and chair of three NHS Trusts and was director of personnel and chief executive of Cornwall County Council, retiring in 2002.

Peter, who will supported by new vice chair, Brian Steward when he takes over in March, was appointed MBE in 2009 for services to the community in Cornwall and he is also a Deputy Lieutenant for Cornwall.

He said: “I'm honoured to take on this position and am looking forward to help grow this well respected and much loved organisation to achieve even greater heights.

“Fortunately for me, I am building on already very firm foundations supported by a great team that has seen the museum develop and become one of Cornwall's most valuable tourism assets.”