Frank Coles has stepped down from his position as chief executive of Hong Kong shipmanager the Wallem Group.

His position will be taken on an interim basis by Wallem Shipmanagement managing director John Kaare Aune.

In a statement the Wallem said: “Frank has been very active in highlighting the plight of seafarers during the Covid-19 pandemic and now wishes to become more involved in promoting their welfare, as well as pursuing other opportunities.”