SO Boaty McBoatface has been voted the most popular name for a new polar research ship.

What a demonstration of a very British sense of humour and, for those old enough to remember, it has shades of shambolic radio comedy series The Navy Lark.

Probably unamused, the National Environment Research Council, who asked members of the public for names for the vessel, have sternly made it clear that they are not bound by the public choice.

They had envisaged "worthy" names in the tradition of earlier ships and no doubt still do.

But hang on: they should take on board the fact that Boaty McBoatface has captured the public's imagination and would inspire generations of curious children to learn about the work of the organisation and the vessel.

Paul Nuttall, North West UK Independence Party MEP and deputy party leader