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Llandudno Lifeboat Station appoints new helm

Lifeboats News Release

Gareth Robinson earns helm role at Llandudno Lifeboat Station.

RNLI/Luke Heritage

In a culmination of rigorous training, hard work and dedication, Gareth Robinson achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing his Helm Passout at Llandudno Lifeboat Station.

On Monday 17 June, Gareth skillfully commanded the inshore lifeboat, leading a team of two crew members while being closely observed by an RNLI Coastal Lifeboat Trainer, who posed challenging scenarios and questions throughout the assessment.

This comprehensive assessment tested Gareth on various critical elements such as anchoring, towing, search patterns and more, showcasing his proficiency in handling complex rescue situations.

The helm is a volunteer in charge of the inshore lifeboat when launching at sea and when the boat is being recovered and made ready for the next rescue. The helm is responsible for the safety of the crew onboard and for everything that happens during a rescue.

Expressing his gratitude, Gareth remarked:

'It’s a real privilege to hold this position, after putting the work in and having it pay off. I couldn’t have done this without the support of the whole crew, whether that’s the other helms that have mentored me, the crew on board the boat each time it’s been at sea and the shore crew, without whom, our operations would not be possible.'

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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