
RNLI Port Talbot trainee crew pass final training units in record time.
RNLI Port Talbot volunteer Carl Matthews, shakes the hand of RNLI Port Talbot Lifeboat Training Coordinator Paul Skinner after passing his final training units to become fully competent crew, two weeks short of 12 months a record for the station.
Within 12 month Carl started as shore crew, completed and was assessed on all shore crew units, passing out as competent, before commencing his crew training plan.
Paul stated "it takes real commitment to train then be assessed and pass the 48 training units which are required to become competent RNLI D-class lifeboat crew. It is truly remarkable given the commitment required for anyone to pass out so quickly."
Carl said of his achievement "I am very proud and happy to have passed my crew plan. I am lucky to be part of an amazing crew here at RNLI Port Talbot and I wish to thank everyone who has offered support and training to allow me to pass my crew plan. I look forward now to continuing on the crew and helping serve the community of Port Talbot."
Carl is just one of the many RNLI Port Talbot volunteers that commit to many hours of training and assessment totalling 3948 hours in 2022 so that they are ready to save lives at sea 24/7 day or night in any weather.
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.