Shields Ferry recruits one of its youngest ever crew members

The Shields Ferry has recruited one of its youngest ever crew members.

Nathan Williamson has joined as Second Mate at the age of 19, following a successful interview.

Nathan from North Shields, is the second youngest person to work on the cross-Tyne ferry service since Nexus took it over in 1972.

Nathan, who is already a volunteer for the Tynemouth Lifeboat, will spend the next few months being mentored in how to drive the vessels before sitting his Boat Master’s Licence – the maritime equivalent of a driving test.

Nathan was presented with his epaulets by Ferry Skipper Stephen Patterson, who became the youngest ever crew member when he joined at the age 18 almost 30 years ago.