A new sailing director is being sought for the Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week regatta, ahead of Stuart Quarrie’s retirement.

Quarrie will vacate the full-time post following this year’s event, in August, with the search for a successor having already begun.

Quarrie said: “I’ve had a fantastic time during my 17 years at Cowes Week, but it’s time now to for me to move on and hand the reins to someone with the enthusiasm and passion to take the event through the next stage in its development.”

Peter Dickson, the chairman of Cowes Week Limited, added: “Finding the right sailing director is crucial to continue the important work of evolving the event.

“It’s an exciting time for Cowes and for the regatta, and this is a great opportunity for the incoming sailing director to really make their mark at one of the world’s premier regattas.”

The new director, who will receive a salary of c£50k depending on experience, will work as part of a small executive team and also with the member clubs of Cowes Combined Clubs through the regatta’s sailing committee.

Closing date for applications is April 7.

Anyone interested should request further details from Peter Dickson at admin@aamcowesweek.co.uk.