UK Docks helps deliver new helicopter capability to HMS Trent in successful collaboration

UK Docks is celebrating the successful delivery of a new helicopter Visual Landing Aid System (HVLAS) to HMS Trent on schedule and within budget.

HMS Trent successfully testing its improved night-time operating system

The HVLAS, along with modifications and upgrades to the navigational aids to support Night Vision Devices (NVDs), was a task which involved multiple agencies.

It allowed UK Docks to confidently demonstrate its capacity and capabilities and that of their supply chain and partners, who were all major contributors to the success of the project.

The new capabilities on HMS Trent were the result of excellent collaboration between partners including UK Docks.

UK Docks’ Operations Director, Stephen Lee, said: “We’re delighted with the outcome, both for DE&S, Royal Navy and our commercial partners and collaborators.

“It is absolutely essential that projects such as these are delivered to the highest standards possible and that value for money considerations are always taken into account.

“This was an important project for UK Docks in demonstrating that we could operate at reach - much of the work was done in Malta before trials in Plymouth and Portsmouth - and in accordance with our brief from the Ministry of Defence’s Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S) Hydrographic and Patrol Naval Ships Support team (NSS).

“DE&S, NSS approval to a live system being switched on and tested with an aircraft, took just eight months, which is a much faster timeframe than might have been expected.”

Helicopter capabilities are an important part of HMS Trent’s offering to the service.

This timeline included all project mandates, execution, delivery, close-out activities, finance, procurement, design (MoD and NATO STANAG), and Lloyd’s Register Naval Classification Society approvals.

The reinstatement, modification, and upgrade of HMS Trent’s helicopter capabilities will restore and enhance the vessel's operational capabilities.

Delivery of this work package was a late introduction during the vessel’s five Annual recertification period. 

However, UK Docks, in collaboration with our service partners, demonstrated the flexibility and agility of a commercially centred ship management organisation, enabling all work to be conducted while HMS Trent remained forward-deployed, rather than being taken out of active service.

Improvements to HMS Trent’s helicopter capabilities were tested and passed with flying colours.

UK Docks worked in collaboration with Du Pré Marine, Palumbo Shipyard Malta, Glamox, and DE&S Naval Supported Ships, responding with precision, technical depth, and a shared commitment to operational readiness. 

The successful completion of this challenging project to the satisfaction of all is a testament to the value of close industry–Defence collaboration. 

The joint team executed a complex package of engineering works that modernised and reinstated legacy systems with fully supportable, 30-year design-life solutions—enhancing platform performance, resilience, and operational flexibility. 

All systems were installed, Set-To-Work (STW), and commissioned on-site, meeting the demanding timelines of military stakeholders and entering service immediately in full compliance with DE&S and Royal Navy requirements.

So successful was the work on HMS Trent’s helicopter capabilities, it may now be unrolled across other Batch 2 vessels

At the core of the upgrade was the integration of a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) system.

It transformed platform operation through improved usability, an intuitive interface, and enhanced interoperability for multinational operations, including embarked aircraft from the B2 River-Class OPV flight deck. 

The completed work enables ship’s staff to operate with greater flexibility, control, and mission agility.

Supporting enhancements included:

• Navigation system upgrade to LED lighting, meeting full Royal Navy navigation light survey standards and ensuring COLREGs compliance.

• Night Vision Device (NVD)-compliant lighting modifications, enabling safe operations during night flying and multinational exercises.

• Electrical system segregation to increase redundancy, power distribution, and platform survivability.

Due to the success of this project, work is now being considered for rollout across the wider B2 River-Class OPV fleet, extending the benefits to other globally deployed Royal Navy assets.

As part of the extended maintenance period in Malta, at the client's request, UK Docks also delivered additional capability enhancements to the platform, working alongside trusted partners and collaborators. 

This achievement reinforces UK Docks’ proven ability, together with its partners, to deliver technically compliant, operationally ready solutions at pace and reach, supporting the Royal Navy’s global mission.

How to go for Gold with the Armed Forces' Employer Recognition Scheme

EARLIER this month, UK Docks received a Gold Award from the Armed Forces’ Employer Recognition Scheme.

It was a proud moment for the company, one of the most important accolades UK Docks has earned since its formation in 1992 and a serious commitment to the many ex-services personnel UK Docks employs.

It marked the end of a seven-year quest for the company since signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2018 and earning a bronze award (2022) and then a silver award (2024).

But what does it take to become a Gold Award holder and what actions do companies and organisations have to do to earn one?

The Gold Award banner that UK companies are allowed to display after successfully achieving recognition.

For those considering following us on the journey, here’s what Gold Award holders have to roll out in order to receive this prestigious recognition:

Gold award holders:

• must have signed the Armed Forces Covenant

• employers must have an existing relationship with their National Account Manager/Regional Employer Engagement Director/appropriate defence representative

• the employer must already be accredited as a holder of ERS Silver Award and held it with sufficient time to develop suitable plans and policies and evidence to support the ERS Gold application

• the employer must proactively demonstrate their forces-friendly credentials as part of their recruiting and selection processes. Where possible, they should be engaged with Career Transition Partnership (CTP) in the recruitment of service leavers and have registered for the Forces Families Jobs (FFJ) portal

• the employer must actively ensure that their workforce is aware of their positive policies towards defence people issues. For example, an employer nominated for support to the Reserves must have an internally publicised and positive HR policy on Reserves

• the employer must be an exemplar within their market sector, advocating support to defence people issues to partner organisations, suppliers and customers with tangible positive results

• within the context of Reserves the employer must have demonstrated support to mobilisations or have a framework in place. They must provide at least 10 days’ additional leave for training, fully paid, to the Reservist employee

• the employer must actively encourage a positive environment for Reservists by ensuring that positive policies in support of Reservists within the workforce are communicated to line managers

• the employer must not have been the subject of any negative public relations or media activity

• the employer should be an exemplar in demonstrating support to the Cadet movement. This could, for example, be through mentoring cadets in key employment skills, by providing guaranteed interviews for cadets.

For more information on the Bronze, Silver and Gold Award scheme, go to: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme

GOLD! UK Docks Awarded Prestigious Gold Employer Recognition Award from Armed Forces

UK Docks has been given a prestigious Gold Employer Recognition Award from the Armed Foces for demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces of the highest level.

The company is honoured to have attained the Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), marking a major milestone in the UK’s ongoing dedication to supporting the UK’s Armed Forces community.

The top-tier accolade marks the highest recognition possible for employers who demonstrate outstanding support to the Armed Forces, including veterans, reservists, and their families. For UK Docks, this achievement represents not just a badge of honour, but a profound acknowledgement of its core values and enduring commitment to those who serve or have served our nation.

The banner UK Docks will now be able to display, recognising its Gold Award status

Stephen Lee, Operations Director at UK Docks, expressed the team's pride.

He said: “The staff and management are absolutely thrilled to have achieved the Gold Award. 

“It has been a long-standing goal of the company—pursued with single-minded determination—and we are delighted to have now earned this prestigious honour.”

UK Docks signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2018, pledging to uphold the principles of fair treatment and support for the Armed Forces community. 

The company achieved its Bronze award in 2022, followed by Silver in 2024. 

Achieving Gold just one year later is a testament to the company’s accelerated efforts and meaningful progress.

Long-term commitment - members of the UK Docks’ management team seen collecting the previous Silver Award.

Managing Director Jonathan Wilson highlighted the wider impact of the award: “This is a company-wide achievement,” he said.

“It reflects the dedication of our entire team in strengthening our support for the Armed Forces, particularly in welcoming and empowering former service personnel within our workforce.
“UK Docks has long-standing ties with the Armed Forces, and we deeply value the expertise, discipline, and resilience that veterans bring to our operations both across the UK and internationally.”

The company continues to proudly support the Ministry of Defence through major contracts, including the global maintenance of the Royal Navy’s Batch 2 River-class vessels—HMS Tamar, Trent, Medway, Spey, and Forth—as well as the polar icebreaker HMS Protector.

“Beyond our operational responsibilities, we are deeply committed to supporting the wider Armed Forces community,” Wilson added. “From employment to community partnerships, our focus remains on honouring and uplifting those who have served.”

The Gold Award is a significant moment in UK Docks’ journey—recognising not only the company’s efforts, but also reinforcing its leadership as a champion for the Armed Forces and a trusted strategic partner within the UK’s maritime and defence sector.

A spokesperson for the military’s Defence Relationship Management team, which announced the latest Gold awards, said: “Thank you for your outstanding commitment and for going above and beyond in your support of those who serve, and their families.

“202 employers have received Gold this year — the highest number yet. It’s fantastic to see so many organisations leading the way in supporting the Armed Forces community, from Reservists and veterans to Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and military families.”

• UK Docks will be formally presented with its Gold Award at a presentation due to be held in York in November.

Ben takes reins of UK Docks' future business development

UK Docks Marine Services has promoted its Gosport-based Portfolio Manager, Ben Mason, to a newly-created role of Business Development director as it eyes and manages significant expansion.

The job has been created to allow UK Docks to take advantage of significant growth in recent years, which has, in turn, brought further opportunities to expand at what is an important juncture for the company.

Ben Mason, UK Docks’ new Business Development director

UK Docks, founded on a single slipway in South Shields in the North East in 1992 offering marine services and repair, has gone from strength to strength over the decades.

It now has bases around the country and operates globally, with growth accelerating in recent years.

In 2024, UK Docks won a £250 million contract to maintain and service five Royal Navy vessels at home and abroad. This year, the company announced the reopening of two newly leased dry docks on Teesside, where it currently operates.

Ben’s promotion is a sign that the company is ambitious to expand further and capitalise on the many business opportunities it sees for future development.

UK Docks managing director, Jonathan Wilson, confirmed: “Ben will be leading our growth strategy, forging key partnerships and identifying new opportunities to bring our services to more clients and communities within the Defence and Commercial sector.

“He brings extensive experience and industry knowledge, as well as a track record of success in his previous role with UKD as Portfolio Manager. 

“He also has a real passion for what he does, and for what UKD does, and has demonstrated his ability to spot opportunity, build meaningful relationships, and drive strategic vision, which makes him the perfect fit for the job.”

Ben finished his education at the University of Southampton before embarking on a varied career which included almost 20 years at BAE Systems, first as a project manager, then as assistant head of its small boats sector.

He joined UK Docks in 2020 and has spent the last few years successfully running and developing the company's specialist maritime services hub at Victoria Quay in Gosport.

The thriving Victoria Quay in Gosport

Ben said: “I’m really looking forward to taking up the new role.

“I’m excited about leading the business development strategy, building key business relationships and enabling the business to continue to grow through its ever-expanding client and partner base. 

“I’ve enjoyed my role as Portfolio Manager and in the last five years at UK Docks have met some great team leaders and members and have created a successful marine servicing hub at Victoria Quay, which I will continue to oversee.”

UK Docks claims North’s Family Business of the Year Award on night of national success

UK Docks Marine Services has won top national awards at the annual Family Business United awards night in London.

The Wilson family mark a night of national success for UK Docks at the Family Business United awards night in London.

The national event saw businesses from all over the United Kingdom competing for the honour of being recognised as those with families at their heart.

And UK Docks founder, Harry Wilson, travelled to the finals held in the Royal Geographical Society building in South Kensington, with his sons and company directors, Chris, Gary and John, to enjoy the awards they entered for the first time this year.

On the night, UK Docks emerged as the winners of the North of England (Northern Ireland) Family Business of the Year award.

But to their surprise, they also won the national Community Support and Involvement Family Award and came runners-up to the overall national competition.

UK Docks wins its second major award of the Family Business Awards night - the win coming completely out of the blue.

Jonathan Wilson, managing director of UK Docks, said: “It was a great event and venue with a good mix of businesses from all sectors. 

“The award meant a lot to us, not just to receive the recognition but to have achieved it as a family. 

“The second award came as a total surprise to all of us, and to get two awards and be runners up for the supreme national award was beyond expectation.”

The company has won a string of awards since being founded in South Shields on a single slipway on the River Tyne in the early 1990s.

Now, it has bases on a national scale and operates globally, serving and maintaining commercial and military vessels across the world, though it retains its headquarters in South Shields.

And across the years of progress, the Wilson family has worked hard to ensure that team spirit and togetherness have been maintained across its centres.

Paul Andrews, managing director of Family Business United, which celebrates the sector, said: “Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy and UK Docks Marine Services is a family business entrenched with family values, a rich history and invested in the communities in which they operate, which resonated with the judges.

The UK Docks team celebrates a very big night for the company’s reputation at the London awards night.

"As a multigenerational family firm with a strong family presence throughout, three generations currently working together, they also have a long-term commitment to charity and community."

Jonathan said: “Over the years, we've developed and expanded the business and grown together as a family through many challenges and milestones. 

“What keeps us going is our commitment and passion for marine engineering and how far we can develop the business.

“Since starting the business, Harry and with the integration of his sons over the years, have built a strong family bond that extends across all our varied business activities. 

“Our passion and bond are deeply rooted in diligence, integrity, and adaptability, which have become the cornerstone of our success, fostering unity and purpose in everything we do. “Working together throughout the decades has highlighted our individual strengths, character and weaknesses, enabling us as a family to make informed decisions at every level of our company’s growth and development. 

“Our dedication to stability and progress, coupled with and supported by our deep belief in ourselves and each other, has allowed us to overcome failures, successes and everyday challenges. 

“That sees us thrive in our ever-changing industry and market environment.

“Our passion for our company and shared bond, strong work ethic, has allowed us to create not only stability for our family but also secure employment for many others. From employees to subcontractors and suppliers, our commitment to their success reflects the values that define our business.”

Paul Andrews said UK Docks deserved all the recognition they received at the national awards night, and he was not surprised to see them feature in three separate awards.

"They are a very strong business financially, committed to giving back and making a positive difference and showing strong attributes in all areas of their submission," he said.

"The passion and bond of the family, together with their strong work ethic, have allowed them to create secure employment for many others, in a sector which, without the drive of their chairman to revive ship repair and reopen yards, when so many others were closing, stood them in good stead.  

“His bold decision-making and leadership have not just built a thriving family business but also a respected legacy within the sector that is now being driven by the next generation."

"They are a great British family business that embodies all of the values that these awards were set up to recognise, strong family values, a real sense of purpose backed by grit, determination and entrepreneurial spirit and deserve all the accolades that winning this award affords them."

Both Shields Ferry’s shipshape for the summer season ahead, thanks to UK Docks

VITAL maintenance work has been successfully completed on the Shields Ferry service ahead of the busy summer season to ensure they operate at peak performance.
The UK Docks’ team in South Shields carried out the work on its River Drive slipway with the Pride of the Tyne coming in for extensive work before Spirit of the Tyne replaced her sister vessel for a much shorter stay.

The Port of Tyne ferry returns to the Tyne after maintenance work at UK Docks.

Nexus, the public body that runs the service, ordered the essential repairs on both of its vessels to ensure they are at their best for the busiest time of year for the iconic Tyne crossing.
The 32-year-old ferry, Pride of the Tyne, has undergone her annual service as well as a refit overhaul on her two propulsion units, while the newer Spirit of the Tyne has passed her annual service.

The Spirit of the Tyne ferry leaves the River Drive slipway in South Shields after work by UK Docks.

The works were extensive and required both vessels to spend time in dry dock.
For the Pride of the Tyne, it involved the removal of her propulsion unit, which needed to be sent away for specialist repair..
Gary Wilson, director at UK Docks, said: “Both Pride and Spirit had their main services carried out, which involved having a full clean down, corrosion removed, and paintwork refreshed. Valves were serviced and anodes replaced.
 “Pride unexpectedly required major work on her propulsion, which was removed with the help of a 250-ton crane and sent away for service.”

Engine removal from the Pride of Tyne for essential repair, carried with the aid of a 250-ton crane.

This extended her time out of the water substantially to 10 weeks and meant that both the service work and time on the Spirit had to be reduced to accommodate work on the Pride.
Gary said: “Fortunately, the younger Spirit didn’t require any unexpected major works, and she was able to go back in the water after two weeks when there was a good tide and the weather was calm.
“Nexus utilised the extended time Pride was out of the water to replace her engine room fans and the main fire/bilge valve.
“Her mooring bollards, external wooden doors and perry buoy holders were refurbished, and her engine room was also extensively cleaned out.
“We’re delighted that both vessels are now back to their best working condition and want to thank Nexus for their cooperation and support.
“Our great working relationship with the Nexus engineering team meant that even with the challenges, we achieved both ferry services within the allotted Nexus slip time.”

The Pride of Tyne ferry undergoes repair and maintenance work on UK Docks’ South Shields slipway.

Kevin Leonard, customer services operations manager at Nexus, said: “The Shields Ferry is an iconic local service and we carry out these works on an annual basis to ensure it can keep doing the daily Tyne crossings we operate between North and South Shields.
“It was great to work once again with the ship repair specialists at UK Docks, whose slipway just down the River Tyne from our South Shields landing is vital to these projects' success.”
Both vessels have now been assessed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) certification and given a clean bill of health.
The ferries will resume peak duties this summer and operate as normal for the rest of the year. 

Maintenance of the ferries takes place annually to ensure they remain in safe and serviceable conditions at all times during passenger services.

UK Docks' engineers pass training course with flying colours

UK DOCKS South has again invested in the skills of its workforce with three employees undertaking the Marine Electrical Skill Bootcamp run by the British Maritime Training & Assessment team.

This course has been invaluable in giving our engineers a better understanding of electrical systems fitted to vessels and electrical theory and fault diagnosis.

Successful engineers Tilina Dilhara, Oliver Coughlan and Tommy Peters with director Charles Barley, (centre right)

We are proud of their application and hard work on studying this course and congratulate our engineers, Tilina Dilhara, Oliver Coughlan and Tommy Peters on passing this course.

The certification is testimony to them gaining invaluable knowledge and skills to become better engineers

Congratulating them, director Charles Barley said: “It’s so important that companies invest in the quality and knowledge of their workforce and full credit to Tillnia, Oliver and Tommy for competing their courses.

“UK Docks would also like to offer a big thanks again to Brian McKeown from the British Maritime and Assessment Team, who organised this course.”

South Shields Sea Cadets boats set to come in...thanks to UK Docks

SOUTH Shields Sea Cadets 315 Corps named ‘TS Collingwood’ are feeling buoyant as work nears completion on the first of two brand-new boats.

The builds have been made possible thanks to a £10,000 donation from Cadets’ president, Harry Wilson, MBE, founder of UK Docks Marine Services in River Drive as well as material support directly from UK Docks.

However, the assembly of the boats has been a real challenge, with the boats needing to meet stringent standards in compliance with the requirements of the Royal Navy, Cadet Forces Training Afloat Regulations and Safety.

Cadet 1st Class Amber, Cadet Corporal Abbie and Cadet Amaani with Vice Chair Keith Trotter, NEMT Chair Alec Renwick, and John Eltringham MBE chair of TS Collingwood.

John Eltringham, chairman of TS Collingwood, admitted: “It has been a tough job and has taken over a year to get to the stage where we’re ready to put the boat in the water.

“But it has been worth it because not only has the work been carried out to the highest standards but also because the cadets have learned a lot from being involved; we’ve used it as a training exercise for them.”

Cadet 1st Class Amber, Cadet Amaani, TS Collingwood Vice Chair Keith Trotter, NEMT Chair Alec Renwick, (In boat) Cadet Corporal Abbie, John Eltringham MBE TS Collingwood chair.

The boats are being built by the North East Maritime Trust, a charitable organisation housed at the other end of Wapping Street on Satellite Quay.

The Maritime Trust focuses on historic working boat restoration, repair and conservation, so the new builds presented an unusual challenge.

John said: “The hard work has been in the assembly, but the first boat is due to be completed around Easter, and because of the knowledge and experience gained, it should mean that the second is ready for some time in the Autumn.”

Cadet Amber, Cadet Corporal Adie and Cadet Armaani and one of the new boats.

The new arrivals will be a boost to the T.S. Collingwood Cadets, who currently have more than 60 cadets supported by around 20 volunteer staff.

The Cadet’s current boats, Trinity 500s, are over a decade old.

“They’re good boats but they naturally attract wear and tear,” said John. “They were produced in partnership with Trinity House as part of Trinity House’s 500th anniversary celebrations in 2014

"The boats were provided to sea cadet units throughout the UK at a discounted rate and we were lucky to receive two from South Tyneside College on permanent loan.

“TS Collingwood has a particular excellence in junior and senior cadet rowing competition in local and especially our female teams at national level.

"These new boats will be very welcome as an additional training resource and will support us taking part in all regattas as well as South Shields Marine School Annual Charity Tyne Rowing Race.

"For this we provide crew training and safety cover.

“The vessels are crewed by four rowers and a cox, and the first boat will soon be ready to sit out on the water.

“The boating season will soon be upon us and we’re looking forward to getting started.”

The development of the boats has been overseen by project manager Matthew Cunningham.

Alec Renwick, chair of the North East Maritime Trust said: “We have been delighted to be involved in this important, unique boat-building project. 

“Our members really enjoy working with the Sea Cadets and are looking forward to completing the work with them.” 

John Eltringham thanked UK Docks president Harry Wilson and the company for the backing which has made the labour of love possible for both the Maritime Trust and several of the cadets.

He said: ”People often don’t realise that the Sea Cadets, as a registered charity are not fully-funded unlike the Army or Airforce Cadets, so having someone supporting us like Harry is a big part of our success.

“It’s also great to have his pride and passion in the cadets and we’ve relied on his wise counsel for many years.

• The first boat will be launched at an official blessing ceremony sometime after Easter.

UK Docks Teesside trebles in size with full acquisition of former Smith's dockyards

UK Docks has agreed on a long-term lease on two more dry docks on Teesside, a move which will see the massive former Smith's dockyards site brought roaring back to life under one company, with new jobs created to boost marine services on the river.

UK Docks Marine already operated two of the dry docks previously belonging to the iconic Smith's Docks Company but is now set to reopen the other two.

This means that the entire former Smith's dockyard estate, which opened in the first decade of the 20th century and closed in 1987, is once again being run by a single company.

For UK Docks, signing the contract to take over yards that have been vacant for almost a year is a proud moment.

The goal now is to turn Teesside into an even more important destination hub for ship maintenance and repair nationally and internationally in the years ahead, launching a new era for marine services and repair on the Tees.

The announcement of the new tenancy follows months of negotiation with site owners PD Ports.

Dan Haslar, senior property manager at PD Ports, (orange hat), congratulates UK Docks founder Harry Wilson and his sons Gary, Jonathan and Chris.

Multi-million pound investment

The agreement will now spark a multi-million-pound investment in the yard, which has two dry docks and extensive workshops across its 10-acre site but will benefit from extensive modernisation in the next few years.

UK Docks’ managing director, Jonathan Wilson, said: “We are delighted to have taken over the site and look forward to redeveloping it and restoring it to a functional facility again.

“We see a lot of potential and possibilities in the site and have a five-year plan to maximise it as an asset.

“Work will start immediately bringing it back to life, and we expect to have it effectively operational again very soon.

“The lease effectively trebles UK Docks’ footprint on the Tees from five acres to 16.5 acres, and we plan to have both sites working in harmony with each other to the benefit of our customers.”

Frans Calje, chief executive officer of PD Ports, said: “We are delighted to agree this deal with UK Docks, which will see the full complement of dry docks on the Tees brought back into use and with great plans to upgrade the facilities.

“The dry docks at Tees Commerce Park have been a key part of the river economy for many years, back to the days of Smith’s Dock, and play a vital role in servicing and maintaining the many vessels that visit and work on this river.”

Largest, independent, family-owned ship repair company in the country

The expansion consolidates UK Docks’ position as the largest, independent, family-owned ship repair company in the country and represents its second significant investment in Teesside.

Established by the Wilson family on a single slipway in South Shields in 1992, UK Docks expanded to revive boatyard and ship repair sites at Cremyll and Gosport on the south coast and, just over a decade ago, took over the former Smiths Dock Ship Repair Company on the Tees.

After extensive restoration of the dilapidated site, it received its first vessel in 2015 - almost 30 years after Smiths closed.

UK Docks’ original 2014 investment saw the company acquire two dry docks, measuring 137 metres by 18.6 metres (No. 4 Dock) and 167.6 metres by 20.4 metres (No. 3 Dock), as well as a fully equipped repair berth, cranes, workshops, and a storage facility.

The new lease will see two more docks added—one measuring 175.26 metres by 22.25 metres and the other 120 metres by 17.3 metres. The bigger of the two dockyards will allow UK Docks to tender for a broader range of vessels.

In addition, the newly leased yard offers lay-by berths, an extra 200 metres of quay space, extensive fabrication, engineering workshop facilities, and laydown areas.

Four UK Docks workers inside the largest of the dry docks acquired show its scale.

Bright future ahead for workers at dockyards on the Tees

MD Jonathan Wilson said: “UK Docks is giving a massive vote of confidence in the future of marine services in the North East, and we were pleased PD Ports bought into our plans and vision for the site.

“Once again, UK Docks is investing in a national industry which many people regarded as being in terminal decline.

“We’ve shown that’s not the case over the years, and we’re very excited about what we might accomplish on Teesside in the years ahead.

“Already, we’ve taken on extra staff with more to follow.

“We plan to modernise the site, upgrade the facilities, and expand many of the services we already provide next door. Having four docks will allow us to look for new opportunities and expand on our existing services and facilities. 

Soon to be open for business - the two new dry docks on the Tees acquired by UK Docks.

“As well as hoping to attract new customers, nationally and internationally, the new docks will benefit our existing customers because there are times we have to schedule with two docks and having four docks means there will be additional dry dock space for customers when needed.

“We’d like to thank Malcolm Wood of Mincoffs Solicitors for help and support in getting this long-term lease agreed and signed to bring these docks back into use.

“It will make our operation more efficient and enable us to increase our market.

“Teesside is set up for supporting the offshore wind industry and offshore support vessels, dredgers, survey vessels and tankers. We can be a service centre supporting that huge and growing industry all across the North Sea and beyond.”

Royal Navy contracts have also become a major part of UK Docks' business in recent years—the navy’s only icebreaker, HMS Protector, as well as HMS Enterprise and HMS Echo, were previously regular visitors to Teesside.

The new acquisition, with its larger docks and quay space, will also benefit tendering for future contracts.

UK Docks shortlisted for National Family Business of the Year Award

UK DOCKS has been shortlisted for the National Family Business of the Year Award in recognition of the fact that founder Harry Wilson has grown the company through his children and grandchildren.

Harry founded UK Docks on a single slipway on the Tyne in 1992, and went on to build it into a national company operating across the globe and now run by his three sons, Jonathan, Gary, and Chris, who are all directors.

For decades, Harry and his sons worked together to build the business as UK Docks expanded to take on docks and repair yards on Teesside and on the south coast in Hampshire and Cornwall.

They helped to turn an industry that many thought was in terminal decline into one which was not only capable of surviving but thriving.

But in all that time of growth and expansion, the company has worked hard to maintain a family ethos across multiple sites, and that has seen them shortlisted for this year's National Family Business of the Year Awards.

Keeping it in the family: UK Docks' Harry Wilson and sons, l to r Jonathan, Harry, Gary and Chris

Currently, UK Docks is introducing the third generation of the Wilson family to the company, with Harry’s grandsons Lewis, 20, taking up a position as a Service Engineer and Ewan, 18, in his second year as an Apprentice Maintenance Engineering Technician.

Succession planning is now part of the company’s long-term strategy, with Lewis being exposed to national and international travel representing the company for repair contracts and Ewan travelling across the UK Docks sites to gain experience in activities and procedures as part of a management training programme.

Harry said: “This is the start of our attempt to transfer to the third generation our experience of the business’s operating activities which has been gained collectively by ourselves over the years.

“And it’s great for that to be recognised with this nomination for the National Family Business of the year award.

The winner of the 2025 prestigious title will be decided on a presentation night in South Kensington in London in June, which the family plans to attend.

The company is in the North East and Northern Ireland section of the awards and will be considered for both regional and national awards.

Harry, now in his 80s, who retains a role as chairman of the company, was awarded the MBE last year for his services to the British ship repair and marine services industry.

The Wilsons at Windsor Castle on Harry receiving his MBE, from l to r, Chris, Audrey, Harry, Gary and Jonathan

And while UK Docks has won recognition for its achievements over the years, Harry says the Family Award is a special one to be associated with.

He said: “I’m very proud of what the company has achieved over the years but very proud of how the lads have taken it forward too.

”From the very start, we’ve looked to have a family feel about the company - not just among ourselves - but all the staff and management team.”

Jonathan, who is now the managing director of UK Docks, said: “It’s an honour to be shortlisted and to be mentioned among so many great companies.

“UK Docks is now the biggest, family-owned ship repair and marine services company in the country and the family element couldn’t be more important to us.

“To prosper as a company over the long term, you need a close-knit group of people working hard in the same direction, and we’ve always made that one of our priorities.

The finalists will meet in London on June 18 for a Gala Awards Evening at The Royal Geographical Society in South Kensington.