Sarah Norbury, editor of Practical Boat Owner, is to step down from the role to pursue a career in freelance journalism. 

She will be leaving IPC Media on 30 April. Sarah is Britain’s longest-serving current yachting magazine editor.

Sarah says: ‘My 20-year career at IPC Media has been exciting and enjoyable, working with some of the most brilliant writers, designers and publishers in the business.

‘After 10 years at the helm of PBO, preceded by two years editing Yachting Monthly, I am delighted to now make the move into freelance journalism which will allow me to write about the many areas of yachting that interest me, focusing on cruising guides, gear testing and French maritime matters.’

Sarah will be replaced by David Pugh, currently deputy editor, who has worked at Practical Boat Owner for the past five years.

Prior to his current deputy editor role, David was on the staff of sister publication Yachting World.

David says: ‘I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to lead PBO into the future.

‘Sarah is passing over a strong brand which commands the highest readership of any marine title in the UK, with a fiercely loyal and passionate subscriber base.

‘These are difficult times for businesses worldwide, but PBO’s core values of practicality, common sense and enjoyment afloat are timeless.

‘I am fortunate to be supported by an extremely competent team, and together I’m sure we can continue to produce and develop a multi-platform magazine which meets our readers’ needs and inspires them to practical boat ownership.’

Publishing director Simon Owen adds: ‘It’s been a massive privilege for me to have worked with Sarah.

‘She has been completely in tune with her readership and has never tired of coming up with brilliant creative ideas to superserve the PBO marketplace!

‘I wish her all the very best in the next phase of her working life and would like to thank her for the enormous contribution she has made to IPC’s marine brands over the years.

‘Sarah’s a tough act to follow, but David has both the talent and credentials to take PBO forward.’

David takes up his new role on May 1.