Llandudno lifeboat shore crew pass out following successful training assessment
Phil Barratt and Nigel Forrest recently completed their latest RNLI assessments. This will significantly enhance the vital launch and recovery operations required at Llandudno Lifeboat Station.
With a RNLI external assessor in attendance, the two volunteer crew members prepared for the final examination of their skills and competencies, Nigel as Head Launcher and Phil as operator of the sophisticated Shannon Launch and Recovery System.
The SLARS has been developed to launch and recover the 18-tonne Shannon lifeboat from extremely rugged and harsh environments. Connected by a pivoting swan neck, hydraulic motors power both the tractor and the rear carriage. The vehicle can be operated in calm water up to a depth of 2.4m and shut down to withstand full submersion in water up to 9m deep if stranded on an incoming tide.
John Roberts one of the trainers at Llandudno explained: 'these assessment days are very demanding and rigorous in terms of, not only setting high standards for those being assessed, but also for the other crew members taking part as they are expected to perform efficiently and effectively as a team.’
For more information, please contact Jonathan Coe, Llandudno Lifeboat Press Officer on 07910 861193. Alternatively contact Claire Elshaw, RNLI Media Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or email [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
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