A port chaplain has retired after more than 25 years service, prompting concerns no successor has yet been appointed.
Great Yarmouth's harbour has had a chaplaincy service almost continually since 1870.
At the retirement party for the Reverend Peter Paine, speakers paid tribute to his work and urged the Mission to Seafarers, a charity which supports crewmen and women, to recruit a new person.
Mission to Seafarers said: "We remain committed to supporting the spiritual and welfare needs of seafarers in the region."
The High Steward of Great Yarmouth, Henry Cator, led a series of speeches paying tribute to Mr Paine.
He said of the chaplaincy service: "We've got to try and make sure it continues, but it's always a challenge to find people who want to have that commitment.
"Peter has given the most amazing commitment to the Mission to Seafarers for over 30 years.
"This mission is a testament to a community standing by its town, the seamen, and the visitors and its fishermen."
Mayor of Great Yarmouth Paula Waters-Bunn said the role was desperately needed within the community.
Richard Goffin, director of Peel Ports Great Yarmouth, paid tribute to Mr Paine's service: "We wish him the very best for a long, leisurely and well-earned retirement, and hope that the mission is able to secure a successor soon."
Steve Morgan, the Mission to Seafarers' regional director for Europe, said: "His commitment to maritime ministry has been invaluable. He has served those who work tirelessly at sea for the benefit of all of us."
Mr Paine said: "This is the best job. Out in the fresh air every day helping people who need help; praying with them; just being a friend to people who are so far away from home.
"It's not hard [but] it is onerous. You get called out all times of day or night, but that's part of the job."
