Loch Ness RNLI celebrates four volunteers passing Tier 1 assessments

The Tier 1 assessment is an important milestone in a crew member’s training which allows the volunteer crew to progress to Tier 2 training and continue their development towards full operational competency and senior roles such as Navigator and Helm. It involves testing the crew’s practical ability and knowledge with a range of scenarios to ensure they can operate safely during real incidents.

Aron, Madison, Georgia and Rich all joined Loch Ness RNLI in 2023 and are looking forward to continuing their progression within the crew.

Aron Rayner said: ‘Passing my T1 qualification with the RNLI Loch Ness crew is something I feel incredibly proud of. It reflects the hard work, training, and commitment I’ve put in, as well as the support from the rest of the crew. I wouldn't have been able to do it without their experience and guidance. I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to continuing to develop my skills and contribute to the RNLI’s vital work.’

Madison Archer-Rayner said: ‘I’m incredibly proud to have passed my Tier 1 assessment. It’s an honour to be part of such an encouraging and helpful team and I’m looking forward to continuing my training and playing my part in helping keep the community safe.’

Georgia Archer said: ‘I’m really relieved to have reached this milestone and proud of my progress so far. I’m so grateful to be part of such a supportive team and looking forward to the next chapter.’

Rich Selby said: ‘I'm pleased to be a full member of the team and grateful for everyone’s time, effort, and support in my training.’

Joanna Stebbings, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Loch Ness RNLI lifeboat station, says: ‘We are delighted that Aron, Madison, Georgia and Rich have passed their Tier 1 assessments. This is a great achievement and testament to the time and dedication they have put into training for the role.’

Ends

Image caption: Top left: Aron Rayner, top right: Madison Archer-Rayner, bottom left: Georgia Archer, bottom right: Rich Selby

Notes to editors

· Loch Ness lifeboat station was established in 2008

· Situated on the northern shore of the iconic Loch Ness, lifeboat station volunteers operate in a unique, inland environment

· To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/loch-ness-lifeboat-station

RNLI media contacts

Lynsey Macready-Morgan, Lifeboat Press Officer, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

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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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.