THE managing director of Medway Ports has parted company with the organisation.

Des Crampton, from Chilham, had been in the job, based at the Port of Sheerness, for many years, believed to be more than a decade.

It is not known exactly when he left, or the circumstances surrounding his departure.

Eric Leatherbarrow, spokesman for Medway Ports’ parent company Peel, said: “I can confirm that Des Crampton has left Medway Ports. But it is a matter between Mr Crampton and the company and there is nothing more to be said.”

Harbour master at Sheerness, Steve Gobbi , is now acting general manager.

However, Mr Crampton does continue to hold prominent community roles.

He is chairman of the board of trustees at Demelza Hospice Care for Children in Bobbing, near Sittingbourne, and a member of the project steering group (PSG) leading the Sheppey Academy plan.

Macia Grebot, spokesman for the project, said: “The PSG is the body established to oversee the efficient management of the Academy proposal and as such, decides on the inclusion of members additional to the sponsors, local authority (in this instance the local authority is also a sponsor) and representatives from the project managers.

“Des Crampton is a valued member of the steering group, having been invited to join for the personal and professional qualities and experience he brings.”