Hans J Marter

7 March, 2008

SHETLAND port missioner Peter Dade is to leave the islands in July to take up his new post as superintendent to the fishermen's mission in Scrabster.

Mr Dade has served the islands' fishing communities for almost eight years, first as assistant superintendent between 1997 and 2002, and then as superintendent from June 2005.

He will be replaced by Paul Govier, who is presently based at the Peterhead mission. Mr Govier, his wife Kim and their two teenage children will move to Shetland later this summer.

Yesterday (Thursday) Mr Dade said he was sorry to leave Shetland and its fishing communities as he thoroughly enjoyed his time in the isles.

"I will miss Shetland, there is no question about that. In the eight years I have met some lovely folk, and made some great contact which will remain.

"My job as port commissioner is to serve the fishing communities and they have in return welcomed me into their homes.

"I can't think of anywhere else in the UK that can surpass the hospitality and friendship of the Shetland people. To be invited into people's homes, be it for a funeral or just during a courtesy visit, is a privilege."

Last year, Mr Dade oversaw the celebrations of the centenary of the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen's presence in Lerwick.

Another highlight during his time in the isles was a nostalgic bus trip to Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, last year, when 22 islanders followed the old “herring trail”.

A similar bus trip will take place later this year, this time to the south coast of England and East Anglia.

Yesterday the chairman of the local advisory committee, Alan Gifford, said Mr Dade's move will be a loss to the isles.

"While we were disappointed to hear that Peter was being transferred, we were equally pleased at his promotion to Scrabster where he will have a wider role to play,” Mr Gifford said.

"Peter has worked tirelessly since taking over a few years ago as superintendent. He has overseen the move to the mission's present office in the Stewart Building, a move which has allowed Peter to spend more time on the very important pastoral care that is so important to those in need, either through accident, sickness, or bereavement."

He added: "While we wish Peter all the best in his move, we also welcome Paul Govier who is moving here from his position as assistant superintendent in Peterhead. The local advisory committee are looking forward to working closely with him."