Goode was involved with Sailing Today from its inception over 10 years ago and edited the title from 2001. In a statement, publishers Boat International Group said: ‘We would like to thank John for all his efforts over the years. His contribution to establishing the magazine as the UK’s most successful independent sailing magazine has been invaluable.’

‘I’m not sure what I'm going to get up to now,’ said Goode, ‘other than continue to nurture Southern Sailing School and its decent people who have been with me for over 20 years.’

But if a worthwhile challenge arises when the dust has settled, I'll let you know, he added.

The editorial team of Rodger Witt, Colin Jarman, Duncan Kent and Tim Bartlett remains in place and Boat International said a further announcement regarding the editor’s post will follow in due course.