RNLI lifeguard from Sunderland going for gold

Chris started working for the RNLI at 17 years old and is now onto his third season as a lifeguard. He does incredible work as a lifeguard for the charity but his life outside of work is equally as interesting.

Chris is currently studying Electrical Engineering at Newcastle University and is also the head coach for Sunderland City Dive team.

Chris started diving at 13 years old and attended his first national competition one year later. After the head coach for Sunderland City Dive team retired, Chris took on the role.

Chris said: ‘Hopefully come September I can start training full time again. My aim is to go elite and I would love to dive for GB in the future’.

Chris recently competed at a Master’s Competition in Edinburgh where he won three gold medals.

Having so much responsibility at such a young age would be daunting for some university students but thanks to Chris’ work with the RNLI, he gained the confidence and skills he needed to embrace all opportunities that have come his way.

Notes to editors

• 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 over 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 142,700 lives.

• As RNLI lifeguards need to be physically on the beach during the patrolled hours, ready to respond to emergencies and prevent accidents, the RNLI can’t rely on volunteers to provide this cover seven days a week. Local authorities part fund the RNLI’s costs, which helps to meet the cost of lifeguard wages.

RNLI Media Contacts

For more information contact:

Kate Driver, RNLI Regional Media Engagement on 07486872956 or email at [email protected]

Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Media Officer on 07824518641 or email at [email protected]

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.