This summer will mark the start of the Dover Harbour Board’s recruitment process to obtain its first community director.

This was announced at the DHB’s annual celebration meeting on Tuesday night at the Cruise Terminal attended by 120 people.

It comes after shipping minister Stephen Hammond visited Dover in April, revealing his plans for the port’s future.

Mr Hammond said such measures will place the community “at the heart” of decision making at the port.

George Jenkins OBE, and chairman of DHB, said: “We intend to engage with community leaders and elected representatives to establish an open and transparent, arms length process for the appointment of that director.

“Our aim is for the recruitment process to commence in the summer demonstrating a further commitment to move forward following the recent Ministerial announcement.”

At the announcement, MP Charlie Elphicke said: “People wanted to have a voice in the board room and wanted to see the port benefit the community.”

More than 30 stakeholders contributed to the celebration and met the public together with the port.

A new model of the Dover Western Docks Revival project was also unveiled for people to see.

The consultation also celebrated the achievements of port employees, two of which being Jamie Ward and Steve Fowler.

Mr Ward received a BTEC award for excellence following his successes in studying his level three diploma in operations and maintenance engineering. He has now began a foundation degree in mechanical engineering.

Mr Fowler has also developed from being a technician in 2008, to completing his chartered membership status, giving him the accreditation he needs.