Paddy becomes Portaferry RNLI's newest helm
Comber man Paddy Lowry is Portaferry RNLI's newest helm after he successfully passed a rigorous assessment following months of intensive training.
The helm is a volunteer crew member in charge of the inshore lifeboat when launching, at sea and when the boat is being recovered and made ready for the next rescue. When on a rescue, the helm also takes responsibility for the safety of the crew.
Over the summer Paddy has undergone extensive training and has now passed a series of assessments making sure he is prepared and ready to take on this new role.
Portaferry RNLI lifeboat operations manager, Heather Kennedy said: 'Paddy has worked very hard over the past few months to attain his helm pass out. He is always prepared to go the extra mile to fix and sort items giving his time generously for the benefit of our boat and station.'
Paddy said: 'I'm delighted to have passed out as inshore lifeboat helm at Portaferry lifeboat station.
'My wife Terri, our LOM Heather, and the rest of the crew have been really supportive over these past few months and I'm really grateful for all the encouragement and good advice.
'I'd also like to thank Coastal Lifeboat Trainers Simon Bunting and Mark Mitchell for everything they have contributed to my training and pass out. I've learnt a lot and I'm really looking forward to this new challenge.'
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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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