The Waterways Trust has appointed Stephen Maris as general manager of the Boat Museum at Ellesmere Port.

Maris comes from a health and fitness industry background, having previously managed clubs for Esporta, Invicta and Fitness for Industry.

The museum, which is situated in the historic dock complex on the south bank of the River Mersey, is currently undergoing a £1.6m refurbishment programme called Project 25.

It is one of three waterway museums managed by the Waterways Trust and opened the How to Build a Boat exhibition over the summer.

“The Boat Museum provides an essential link with our industrial heritage and an invaluable reminder of how waterways have shaped so many aspects of modern life,” said Maris.

“I am looking forward to encouraging a new generation of visitors to the museum to explore our history.”