Josh Jones, 33, joined Whitby RNLI back in 2017 and is a volunteer on both the all-weather lifeboat George and Mary Webb, and the D class inshore lifeboat.
The D class inshore lifeboat is highly manoeuvrable and operates closer to shore than the all-weather lifeboats. It is an inflatable boat that comes into its own for rescues in the surf, shallow water and confined locations.
Josh has been undergoing a training plan to pass out as helm, which takes around two years and ends with a final assessment from an external assessor.
As well as his volunteer role at Whitby RNLI Josh has a busy home life with two young sons and another on the way, and he works with looked after children at a nearby school.
Josh said: 'Thank you to the crew at Whitby who have supported me with my training and passed on their knowledge and experience. I am looking forward to what the role of helm might bring.'
Whitby RNLI Coxswain Howard Fields said: 'Myself and the crew would like to congratulate Josh, the hard work has paid off.'
For more information contact Lifeboat Press Officer Ceri Oakes on 07813359428 or at [email protected]
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.