"I like to think I brought the BMF closer to the regions, " Grazebrook told BB. "I attended 24 regional meetings in my time and enjoyed every one of them."

The new president is Peter Methven, ex-chairman of the Marine Trades Association (MTA) and managing director of Latitude 52.

Methven is an international consultant and a recognised expert in the sportsboat sector, importing - among others - thrusting, V8-powered ski boats.

"James has been an outstanding president who has done a tremendous amount of work in supporting the executive when it comes to government relations, " said Methven.

Of his own aspirations for his presidency, Methven told BB: "Firstly, continuing the good work James has started."

I have a word I use, he added, and that is relevant. "I think we should concentrate on doing things that are relevant to the industry and its members. There is huge pressure on the resources of the BMF and we must make sure it is all relevant and our actions are all relevant."