A leading harbour engineer has retired from the Harwich Haven Authority after 30 years of service.

Richard Allen MBE graduated with a BSc in civil engineering in 1964 from Manchester University.

He then joined John Laing's where he was involved in large construction projects.

In 1968, he joined the Port of Felixstowe, where one of his first jobs was to finish off the first container terminal at Landguard.

In 1973, he moved across the estuary to the Harwich Harbour Conservancy Board to become harbour engineer, initially for a three-year contract.

Since then Mr Allen has been responsible for four major dredging programmes including deepening the main channel.

He was made an MBE for his services to the ports' industry. Mr Allen will enjoy his retirement in his home town of Manningtree.

Published Friday January 2, 2004

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