Welcome
No sooner does SCUBA hit its 10-year anniversary than I find myself reluctantly ringing the changes . The big one this month is that Michelle Haywood is ending her decade-long run as columnist . Having been elected to the Isle of Man ’ s House of Keys , she is taking on more responsibilities than ever . Something had to give .
As Michelle ’ s editor , I ’ m happy for her success , but obviously sad to lose such a talented contributor . She began writing about her experiences running a dive centre , later changing the emphasis to that of diving science . Coming from a scientific background herself , her correct title is ‘ Dr Michelle Haywood ’ but she turned down the option of using her honorific in SCUBA , preferring to keep an informal tone .
In her final column [ see Weird Science , page 19 ], Michelle asks what prompted me to invite her to SCUBA Towers . Well , as soon as the idea dawned on me , I realised I would be absolutely daft not to sign her up .
I commissioned Michelle because she was – and is – a highly literate mother , diver and businesswoman , completely immersed in BSAC and the diving community . Creative and hardworking , I knew she would always have something entertaining to say when setting out her take on scuba culture . I also admired her warmth and good humour , which also found their way to the page as Michelle ’ s tales unfolded . In short , she had something to say , and she knew how to say it in style .
About halfway through her run , I asked Michelle to shift the emphasis of her page to investigating matters of science and diving . At first , she was reluctant , worried about the critical eye of fellow scientists . But her columns were imbued with a new sense of purpose as she led SCUBA ’ s readers through a series of often complex subjects .
I know many of you looked forward to her column every month , and that her monthly presence will be sorely missed . Perhaps we will be able to lure her back one day in some capacity , but for now her move creates an opportunity for a new figure . I ’ m trying out a few potential columnists ; whoever steps in will be bringing their own style to SCUBA . Watch this space .
For now , I ’ m sure I speak for everyone when I thank Michelle for 10 years of wit and wisdom . We wish her all the very best in her new role as Member of the House of Keys . Let ’ s hear it for Dr Michelle Haywood , MHK !
Rogerson – Editor simon @ scubamagazine . co . uk
Cover photo : Pink sea fan on the hull of HMS Scylla , Plymouth , by Simon Rogerson
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