Cromer volunteer completes training to strengthen lifesaving capability

Justin Kerr has been volunteering at the station since May 2022. Initially he was part of the shore crew but since April 2025 he has undertaken significant training on both the station’s all-weather lifeboat and inshore lifeboat, alongside his other volunteering commitments.

On the all-weather lifeboat, Justin has completed Tier 1 and Tier 2 training. These tiers cover the core skills required to operate safely at sea, progressing from initial crew training through to becoming a fully competent crew member capable of taking an active role during service launches.

Justin also has completed Tier 1 and Tier 2 training on the inshore lifeboat, which focuses on fast-response rescues closer to shore, often in challenging surf and weather conditions. Additionally he has undertaken casualty care training. His inshore lifeboat mechanic pass-out is expected imminently, enabling him to play a key role in maintaining the lifeboat’s readiness for service.

Alongside his afloat duties, Justin also supports the station in other roles, including shore crew, helping to prepare, launch, recover and secure the lifeboats safely. These roles are essential to every shout and are carried out in all weather, at any time of day or night.

Speaking about his training and volunteering, Justin said:

'I joined the RNLI because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself. Living near the coast, I’ve always been aware of how quickly conditions can change and how vital it is to have skilled, committed people ready to respond at a moment’s notice.

'I’m motivated by the opportunity to make a real difference in my community, whether that’s assisting directly in rescues or supporting the wider efforts that keep people safe.

'Being part of the RNLI has also given me the chance to challenge myself, learn new skills and work alongside other dedicated volunteers who share the same commitment. At Cromer Lifeboat Station, we’re like a family – we support each other not only in our roles, but outside of them too.'

Cromer RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, John Redmond praised Justin’s commitment and the wider contribution of volunteers and said: 'Justin’s progress is a great example of the dedication shown by our volunteers. Training to this level takes a significant amount of time and commitment, all given freely. Our crews train hard so they are ready to respond whenever the pager goes, and that readiness is vital to protecting life along our coast and supporting the local community.'

Justin’s commitment reflects the vital role played by volunteers at Cromer Lifeboat Station, whose training, teamwork and readiness ensure the station can continue to save lives at sea and support the local community whenever the call comes.

RNLI Media contacts

For more information, please contact Clare Stagg, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [email protected]

Key facts about Cromer RNLI

The Cromer Lifeboat Station was established in 1804 and was not taken over by the Institution from the Norfolk Shipwreck Association until 1857. Since 1923 there have been two lifeboats at Cromer, and currently there is a D Class inshore boat and Tamar all-weather lifeboat.

The outstanding figure in the history of Cromer is Henry George Blogg who became a member of the Cromer crew in 1894 at the age of 18. He was coxswain from 1909-1947. During his 53 years as a lifeboat crew member, the Cromer lifeboats had been on service 387 times and rescued 873 lives. His record is without equal in the history of the Institution. No lifeboat crew member has received so many decorations for gallantry. Cromer RNLI lifeboat station was founded in 1804 and became part of the RNLI in 1824, and in that time its crews have launched the lifeboats 1435 times and saved 1294 lives.

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.