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Geoff Cowen Qualifies as Launch Authority at Llandudno RNLI

Lifeboats News Release

Llandudno Lifeboat Station is proud to share that volunteer Geoff Cowen has now qualified as a Launch Authority, following the successful completion of his final assessment.

RNLI/Luke Heritage

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The assessment, carried out last week by Coastal Lifeboat Trainer Simon Bunting, is a detailed and challenging shore-based exercise lasting around 90 minutes. It is designed to test a candidate’s understanding of RNLI policy, local procedures, and standard operating practices, along with their ability to respond to unfolding scenarios and make clear, informed decisions under pressure.

As a Launch Authority, Geoff will play a key role in service operations. The position involves working closely with HM Coastguard, selecting the appropriate asset for launch, and providing operational support to the Lifeboat Operations Manager.

Since joining the station towards the end of last year, Geoff has committed a significant amount of time to training. His preparation has included regular weekly sessions, largely guided by Launch Authority Alun Pari Huws, alongside two structured online workshops. Over a relatively short period, he has built up a strong foundation of knowledge and demonstrated a composed and reliable approach.

The station team is pleased to see Geoff reach this achievement and welcomes him into the Launch Authority role as he begins this important position within the station.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Luke Heritage, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Wales & West, L[email protected]

Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07977 728 315, [email protected]

Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07786 668829, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.

About the author

Luke Heritage
Lifeboat Press Officer, Llandudno Lifeboat Station

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