THE Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has welcomed its new president – Admiral Sir George Zambellas – to its Chichester headquarters.

The visit enabled Sir George, who recently stepped down as the First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy, to learn more about support the Society gives to those facing financial difficulties in the retired and serving seafaring community.

Sir George, pictured, said: “To take up the office of president for a maritime charity with such a distinguished history spanning 178 years was a great honour.

“My visit today has given me an even greater insight into the vital and much needed assistance the society gives.”

The society has been serving the seafaring community for 178 years and last year grants were provided in more than 2,000 cases of need at a cost of £1.4 million.