HIS day job involves him looking after some of the biggest ships in the world as they enter and leave the Port of Southampton.

Container ships that are 400m long and the largest cruise ships in the world are regular visitors to the port and his team ensure their safe passage through some of the busiest waters in the UK.

But at the weekend, ABP Southampton Harbour Master Martin Phipps likes to take the controls of a slightly smaller vessel – a model aircraft carrier (complete with miniature jets and helicopters) measuring just half a metre.

Most Sundays you will find him with his grandson Jack at Canoe Lake in Southsea with a gaggle of other model boat enthusiasts.

“My wife Jill bought me the carrier for Christmas – it’s just a bit of fun and a good excuse to spend time with Jack,” explained Martin.

A captain in the merchant navy for 10 years, Martin used his extensive knowledge to become a marine pilot and notable ships he brought into Southampton included the QE2.

“The model carrier has a destroyer that you can deploy with it too – and some Sundays there are quite a few different ships on the lake including a tug that belches steam from its stack.

“I like the carrier but I’ve got my eye on a yacht next with a radio controlled rudder,” added Martin.