Brian Peters OBE has been appointed President of the British Marine Federation. He succeeds Peter Methven who has held the position for the last two and a half years.

Brian Peters served a five-year apprenticeship in automobile engineering before joining the marine industry in 1959 and was the founder of Peters Plc in 1972, the largest motor and sail boat distributor in Europe. He has served on the board of National Boat Shows Ltd since the year 2000, including three years as chairman, helping oversee the running of both the London and Southampton Boat Shows.

He was awarded the OBE for services to business and the community in the 2006 New Year’s Honours list.

At the BMF, Brian Peters has served for the last seven years on the Management Board and National Council and has been a long standing member of the Federation’s International Committee which supports the Industry’s export efforts.

Brian Peters said: “To be appointed President of the British Marine Federation is a fantastic honour and I am looking forward to taking on the role. The industry has a bright future but challenges also lie ahead.

“The marine industry is crucial to the economic lives of many and supports the leisure activities of millions of British people. I therefore relish the challenge of my tenure as President”

Rob Stevens, Chief Executive of the BMF added: “I am delighted that Brian Peters has been appointed President of the British Marine Federation. He brings with him a wealth of experience from the marine sector and has displayed an unstinting commitment to promoting and championing the industry. We very much look forward to his time as President.”