We promised this podcast series would shine a light on some of the unsung heroes of the maritime industry and hope you agree that this episode certainly does!

He goes to work on a launch, several miles out to sea will scale the side of a ship to work with a captain and crew he may never have met before; Andy Bradbury is one of the team of maritime pilots working around the UK.

In this episode he explains how he was attracted to the demanding role, the responsibilities it entails and some of the experiences he's had navigating ships into the ports of Heysham and Glasson Dock in Lancashire.

As you'll hear, both offer real challenges!

Alistair and Nigel also look at some of the industry news around and talk briefly about cruising - a potential topic for a future podcast.

NB Since recording our conversation, Andy is now progressed to be a trainee pilot serving Liverpool. We wish him well in his new role!