Port Talbot RNLI celebrates latest volunteer helm
Port Talbot RNLI's Gareth Kehoe reached an important training milestone in his lifeboat crew journey, as he successfully passed out as the station’s latest helm with support from fellow volunteers.
Yesterday on St David’s Day (Sunday 1 March), Gareth Kehoe successfully completed his assessment with RNLI Training Assessor Paul Taylor. Despite the overcast weather, the pair embarked with fellow crew members on a 2 hour assessment aboard the station’s D class inshore lifeboat, Craig Morris.
The assessment covered a range of critical skills, including anchor veering, navigation and a man overboard (MOB) drill. Throughout the process, Gareth was in command of the lifeboat demonstrating his competence and leadership during each exercise.
After completing the required manoeuvres, Gareth returned to the station to await the results of his assessment. Following a thorough discussion, Paul was pleased to present Gareth with his helm’s cap, signifying that he had passed the assessment and is now fully qualified to take on the responsibilities of a RNLI helm.
Speaking after he’d passed his assessment, Gareth said:
‘On St David’s Day, I’ve passed out as a helm and I’ve proven to myself and others that with a lot of hard work and belief in yourself, anything is possible. I couldn’t have done this without the help from my fellow crew, the Lifeboat Training Co-ordinators, and those who have gone the extra mile to assist me.
‘I would like to thank my family, as they have stood by me throughout this journey. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve made it. Thank you all.’
Port Talbot Lifeboat Operations Manager, Clive Morris added:
‘This achievement marks a significant milestone in Gareth’s RNLI journey, showcasing his dedication and expertise in a role vital to saving lives at sea.
‘Becoming a helm takes time and the long hours of studying and practical training have certainly paid off. This success is truly well deserved after years of hard work and training.’
RNLI lifeboat volunteers commit to regular training and lifeboat exercises, in order to be ready to respond when the call for help comes in. Training and equipping our volunteer crews is only possible due to the generosity of our supporters. For more information about what we do, visit www.rnli.org.
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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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