This year we are celebrating Red Funnel’s 165th birthday, though our connection with Southampton stretches back to 1820. Today, Southampton is one of the busiest ports in the UK, supporting nearly every element of the maritime industry, and what an industry it is! The UK is intrinsically dependent on maritime transport, with around 95 per cent of the UK’s trade volume moved by sea. One of the most important elements of this is ensuring that young people today recognise the opportunities of a maritime career. Find out more about opportunities in maritime in the Central South at the Maritime Transport Careers Programme website.