December 23 - In the UK, Coastal Bulk Shipping, which made its debut in 2006, is reported to have ceased trading.

It has also been reported that associated company, River Bulk Shipping has also ceased trading.

Both companies are believed to be owned by Fourwind Holdings whose directors are John Yeoman and Tim Lowry who are, respectively, the chairman and managing director of Coastal Bulk Shipping.

Attempts by HLPFI to verify the reports about Coastal Bulk Shipping, which lists project cargoes as one of its service offerings, have failed and we have been advised that "no-one will be available for comment until after the holidays."