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RNLI Pwllheli congratulates new SLARS operator

Lifeboats News Release

The volunteer crew at RNLI Pwllheli have been congratulating Peredur Davies, who has successfully qualified as a Shannon Launch and Recovery System (SLARS) operator.

Peredur Davies sitting at the controls of the SLARS

RNLI/Elizabeth Perry

Peredur Davies at the controls of the SLARS

Peredur, 28, who lives in Pwllheli, is a control systems engineer at Dinorwig Power Station and was encouraged to join the volunteer shore crew at RNLI Pwllheli. The shore crew plays a vital role in launching the boats used by the charity to save lives at sea.

Peredur said: 'I started in September and learnt the ropes as shore crew and then spent time as second operator on the SLARS. I have experience driving heavy plant machinery but the training is very good, plus you can do self learning using the online resources.

'Anyone can do it, so why not come down and give it a go, it’s not as scary as you think. It’s a cracking team to be a part of and a good thing to do because you feel you can make a valued contribution to the community.'

RNLI Pwllheli’s Lifeboat Operations Manager, Andy Vowell, said: 'After some intense training and several launch and recovery exercises I’m very pleased Peredur has successfully completed his SLARS operator qualification, he will be a valuable addition to the SLARS driving team.'

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer should contact RNLI Pwllheli lifeboat station on 01758 613848

RNLI media contact

For more information contact Elizabeth Perry, RNLI Pwllheli Lifeboat Press Officer on 07806 800627 or email [email protected]. Alternatively contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or email [email protected].


The Shannon lifeboat being launched at RNLI Pwllheli on an exercise

RNLI/Elizabeth Perry

Peredur Davies launching RNLI Pwllheli Shannon lifeboat on an exercise

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.