Behind every rescue is a hidden hero

Exploring the courage, innovation and brute strength behind two essential elements of any RNLI rescue: lifeboat launch and recovery.

A half-capsized ocean rowing boat is out at sea, being battered by the terrifying waves of Storm Arwen. For the desperate rowers trapped inside it, the outlook is hopeless. But on the shore, lifeboat volunteers’ pagers are sounding.

When the call for help comes in, it's not just our lifeboat crews who launch into action. Our volunteer shore crews are vital in helping us power to the rescue - with the aid of some mighty machines. 

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is on the hunt for budding lifeguards to launch their lifesaving careers on some of the UK’s most popular beaches.