Buckler’s Hard marine apprentice Ollie Rickard meets Princess Anne after being shortlisted for top award

A BUCKLER’S Hard marine apprentice met Princess Anne after being shortlisted for a top award at Southampton Boat Show.

Ollie Rickard (23) was a finalist in the inaugural British Marine Apprentice of the Year award after undertaking his Level 2 Marina & Boatyard Operative qualification at the yacht harbour.

Although he did not win, Ollie was invited to a reception with the Princess Royal after being chosen by a distinguished panel of judges.

A popular and well known face in Buckler’s Hard, Ollie helped as a river hand before embarking on his qualifications. He moved from his home in Plymouth to start his apprenticeship and now lives on the Beaulieu Estate.

He has been learning to deliver a wide range of services, from lifting, launching and pressure-washing vessels to moving boats on the water. He has also studied safety rules and regulations, undertaken marina maintenance tasks and developed skills to assist boat owners and visitors.

British Marine’s new award celebrates the talents of outstanding apprentices within the marine leisure, small commercial and super yacht sectors.

Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: “We are so proud of Ollie’s achievements and that he made it to the final for this new top award.

“Ollie has become a familiar, popular face with our berth and mooring holders.”