MEMBER NEWS The strategic role of Devon’s ports


THE UK ports industry is the largest in Europe - and Devon Chamber of Commerce organised with Associated British Ports (APB) for a business delegation to visit Teignmouth Docks recently. Many people don’t know the


critical and economic role that the Teignmouth and Plymouth Ports play in the region for our local manufacturers and businesses, Chief Executive of the Devon Chamber of Commerce George Cowcher commented. He said: “APB is Britain’s leading


port operator, and Teignmouth Docks handles a wide variety of dry bulks as well as heavy lifts and warehouse facilities. “Large and small companies


from across the county wanted to see for themselves how Teignmouth Port works, and what opportunities are available to use the installation.” Mr Cowcher added: “We are also


looking at the challenges of goods being imported from Europe into Teignmouth, and whether there will be a new regularity inspection system being imposed as a result of being outside of the EU. “It is important that the Chamber highlights the significance of


‘Many people


Alex Chinchen hosts a visit to Teignmouth Port


don’t know the critical and


Teignmouth and Plymouth Ports, to the strategic well being of the county.” Alex Chinchen, Divisional Port Manager, South West Coast, APB, said: “I’m the first APB female port manager in the UK, and I’m in charge of both Teignmouth and Plymouth Ports.” “We've got a long way to catch


economic role that the Teignmouth and Plymouth Ports play’


up to get more women into the


organisation and maritime industry, but


it’s great to be a first,” she


said. “I love the variety of my role -


one minute I’m in Plymouth and working with our partner Brittany Ferries, where we focus on customer services, and the next


I’m in Teignmouth which is completely different and doesn’t run on schedules. “We need to be flexible and


adaptive but the sheer scale is exciting, and you never know what is going to happen next.” Teignmouth Docks handles


nearly 400,000 tonnes every year with Plymouth handling over 250,000 tonnes each year.


Country Club gets coveted four stars


The renowned China Fleet Country Club in Saltash, Cornwall has been awarded a prestigious four-star rating by the AA. China Fleet County Club is a


hotel, golf and leisure club set in 180 acres of stunning countryside on the banks of the River Tamar in Saltash. Having first opened in 1991, the Club recently celebrated its 25th anniversary last year with HRH Princess Anne. “We are very proud and delighted


to have been awarded 4 stars from the AA – it is a fantastic achievement for China Fleet and the team here,” said China Fleet Managing Director Dean Bennett. “What great recognition towards the progress we have made in the last year and to the team's friendly attitude, commitment and professionalism. “We are delighted that our hard


work and excellent standards have been further recognised by the AA. The entire team has worked very hard and this industry recognition is fantastic.” China Fleet is one of the South


West’s leading country clubs. Just 15 minutes from Plymouth’s city centre, it features a golf course, conference


8 Chamber Profile November/December 2017


The prestigious China Fleet Country Club is set on the banks of the Tamar


rooms, spa and swimming pool, restaurants, beauty salon and leisure facilities including racket sports, gym and children’s clubs. The accommodation features 41 self- catering apartments making it a popular choice for weddings, conferences and holidays. The Club has recently undergone


a series of refreshments including a new, £500,000 state-of-the-art Aqua Spa and refurbished apartments. Dean added: “Our hotel side of


the business now offers 24-hour room service including an out of hours menu – something that was recognised by the AA inspectors.”


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32