Baltimore RNLI mechanic retires after 38 years of dedicated service

Cathal’s connection to the RNLI goes back to his childhood when time spent with his father in the old lifeboat station first sparked his commitment to lifesaving.

The Cottrell’s uniquely are the only family to have served on each class of lifeboat that has been at Baltimore RNLI since its inception. Cathal’s father served as a full time mechanic for the station for five years from 1983 to 1988, before retiring due to illness. Cathal’s grandfather was a coxswain for the station while his brothers Kevin, Micheál and Brendan have all volunteered over the years with Micheál and Brendan still serving as longstanding crew members.

‘My first lasting memories I have of the RNLI is spending time at the station with my father,’ Cathal says, ‘I remember being freezing cold in the old boathouse in winter with the tiny storage heater in the corner. Things were definitely less advanced back then, but those memories have stuck with me more than anything.’

Over nearly four decades, Cathal has witnessed many changes in lifeboat operations and technology.

‘Things have certainly evolved since I started out. Crew comfort is the biggest one. Safety is a priority on the lifeboat, and you always feel secure responding to rescues.’

A proud member of the tight‑knit Baltimore community, Cathal says the station has always supported the island communities.

‘We almost act as the ambulance for the islands such as Cape Clear Island where I know the people. I’ve been on call outs to rescue people I’ve known all my life. People really appreciate the lifeboat being there when they need it most.’

Cathal remembers his very first shout, a call out to the cargo ship Seaburn Girl, which had begun taking on water while transporting fertilizer: ‘Despite the challenges we were able to bring the crew on board safely into Baltimore Harbour. Some of the crew who were with me that day are still on the crew now. It just shows how much these people have given to their community over such a long period of time.’

Throughout his career, Cathal has travelled widely with the RNLI, supporting stations across Ireland and meeting people who share the same dedication as him: ‘It’s brought me places I’d never been before and to stations where I’ve met fantastic people. Bringing the Tamar class lifeboat over from Poole was a highlight — especially meeting the folks in Cornwall and Crosshaven who gave us such a huge welcome.’

Reflecting on the commitment required of RNLI volunteers, he added: ‘You do appreciate everyone who gives their time to the RNLI, whether that’s five minutes or ten years. In some ways the people around you, such as your family, volunteer their time as well. Thirty‑eight years is a long stretch to have the pager always on your mind.

‘Special thanks to my partner, Fidelma, for supporting me and thanks to my family for what they have given to the RNLI. I also want to thank the many Coxswains, mechanics, navigators, crew, launch authorities and fundraisers I’ve served with over 38 years, whose support allowed us to launch in all weathers and respond whenever we were needed.’

Tom Bushe, Baltimore RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager paid tribute to Cathal’s exceptional contribution: ‘Cathal has spent the last 38 years serving and protecting the seagoing community with professionalism, courage, and compassion. Throughout his career, he has been a trusted colleague, mentor, and friend to many within the RNLI and especially here in Baltimore. I would like to thank him sincerely for his outstanding service and wish him all the very best for the future.’

Ends

RNLI media contacts

For information please contact Ciaran Dixon, Communications Placement, Tel: 087 467 4436, email: [email protected], Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead Tel: 087 1254 124 email: [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager Tel: 087 648 3547 email: [email protected]

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Ciaran Dixon, RNLI Communications Placement for Ireland, [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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