2023-2024 winners Peter Ward and Chris Cole
Eastern region members Peter Ward and Chris Cole take the 2024 award for their important work in lobbying for the restoration of the right of navigation through the Haven Bridge in Great Yarmouth.
Their nominator came from Eastern region coordinators Paul and Thandi Bates who wrote:
The spirit of dedication, passion, and resilience that defines the Broom Owners Club finds its epitome in Peter Ward and Chris Cole, whose outstanding efforts over the past year have significantly promoted and safeguarded Broom boating. It is with great enthusiasm that we nominate them for the prestigious Martin Broom Memorial Trophy.
Throughout a challenging period marked by restrictive policies imposed by Peel Ports at Haven Bridge, Peter and Chris have been tireless advocates for the boating community. In January 2024, Peel Ports unilaterally introduced a new transit fee and restricted bridge lifts, seriously compromising the safety and operational freedom of our members. Recognizing the gravity of these measures, Peter and Chris spearheaded a multi-faceted campaign to address and rectify these abrupt changes.
Their strategy included rallying support from MPs such as the Rt Hon Sir Brandon Lewis and Jerome Mayhew, engaging with the press to enhance public awareness, and maintaining a persistent dialogue on social media platforms to keep the issue in the public eye. They also collaborated closely with organizations like the Norfolk & Suffolk Boating Association, the Broads Society and Royal Yachting Association, ensuring a united front against the operational challenges imposed.
Peter and Chris’s hands-on approach brought them to numerous meetings with Peel Ports, where they presented a strong case backed by factual evidence and legal precedents, notably invoking Article 59 of The Great Yarmouth Port and Haven Act of 1866. Their unyielding efforts culminated in a significant victory in July 2024 when their lobbying and public pressure led to the resumption of regular bridge lifting operations, restoring full access through Great Yarmouth.
The impact of their work extends beyond just logistical victories; they have ensured the safety and well-being of approximately 200 BOC members and other boaters who frequent the Norfolk Broads. Furthermore, their actions likely prevented other potential emergencies, similar to an incident where a leisure craft was rescued by a lifeboat due to these restrictive bridge operations.
Their commitment has not only been in terms of time but also personal financial contributions, underlining their dedication to the Club’s cause. The outcome of their efforts has been immensely beneficial, safeguarding our members’ ability to navigate safely and freely.
For these reasons, we wholeheartedly nominate Peter Ward and Chris Cole for the Martin Broom Memorial Trophy. Their leadership, resolve, and unwavering commitment to our community embody the values cherished by the Broom Owners Club and honour the legacy of Martin Broom himself.