Tom follows dad as helm of Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat

Father of two Tom Crabbe passed the final test to become a helm during a day of theory and ninety minutes at sea under the close scrutiny of an RNLI assessor/trainer.

Tom was examined by Carl Beardmore, a coxswain with the RNLI at Falmouth.At the end of the day's events Carl said:' Tom satisfied me that he is very safe, knowledgeable and will make an excellent helm for the Lyme Regis lifeboat station.'

Tom, a crew member for six years, is now the seventh helm at Lyme Regis, one of the most important and responsible roles.

As helm he commands the lifeboat and is responsible for the welfare and safety of other crew members and the vessel itself.

Said Tom:'I am absolutely delighted to have made the grade as a helm, and proud to follow my dad.' Tom's father Rob retired from the lifeboat crew after 20 years' service and was also a helm.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks said:'I congratulate Tom. His operational pass-out as a helm is testament to his dedication as one of our much-valued volunteers.'

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

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