THE Taunton-based UK Hydrographic Office has appointed David Palmer as its non-executive chairman.

Mr Palmer is director of commercial printing company the Polestar Group; chairman at Spanish commercial printer Dedalo Grupo Grafico; and executive trustee of the Mary Rose.

His appointment is aimed at helping the UKHO rise to the challenge of competition in electronic charting in which the organisation is already a key player.

For the full story, see this week's Somerset County Gazette.