Two new helms appointed at St Agnes, including first female helm for station
Two new helms have recently qualified at St Agnes RNLI Lifeboat Station and one of them is the first female helm at the station, since RNLI crew records of the station began, and is believed to be the first in the station's history.
The RNLI prides in high quality training and development for its crews. Most recently two new helms have been appointed to the station's crew personnel. They have undergone extensive training at sea and in the classroom at the RNLI College in Poole, Dorset.
Richard Draisey says: 'For me, the lifeboat is at the heart of the community, bringing together volunteers from all walks of life. It's a privilege to be a part of such a dedicated team and to train alongside some incredibly skilled and experienced individuals. I'm delighted to take on the responsibility of becoming a helm and look forward to the challenges ahead.'
Beth Simons added: 'Almost ten years to the day since I joined the lifeboat, I feel incredibly proud to be the first female helm at St Agnes and I’m so grateful to all of those who have supported me along the way.
'It has, at times, been a battle to challenge the perceptions of what a lifeboat person is, but I hope that women continue to join the service. I look forward to what the future brings.'
If you are interested in getting involved and being a part of your local lifeboat station team, whether as shore crew, lifeboat crew, or in a supporting or fundraising capacity, then look up this link online and let us know. https://jobs.rnli.org/home.html.
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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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.