A CAPTAIN has been honoured by the Queen for his service to seafarers.

Captain Richard Woodman, of Fronks Road in Dovercourt, served the General Lighthouse Authority, Trinity House, for 47 years.

As part of the New Year’s Honours list Richard was appointed as a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order.

“This is a direct honour from the Queen,” he said.

“I was very pleased and my family were delighted on my behalf.”

Richard, who went to sea aged 16 in the Merchant Navy before joining Trinity House as a second officer, has also made a career as an award-winning author.

He has more than 50 published maritime books to his name including the definitive history of Trinity House called Light Upon The Waters, which has been published to mark the 500th anniversary celebrations.