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Plymouth RNLI welcomes new Lifeboat Operations Manager

Lifeboats News Release

The charity dedicated to saving lives at sea has appointed Nigel Gray as the new volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) at Plymouth RNLI Lifeboat Station. Nigel takes over the role from Chris Westall, who is stepping down after eight years leading the team.

Nigel Gray appointed as new Lifeboat Operations Manager for Plymouth RNLI.

RNLI/Darren Blight

Nigel Gray - Lifeboat Operations Manager

Nigel began volunteering with Plymouth RNLI as a Launch Authority in May 2021. With a long family tradition of yacht racing in Plymouth and a career in the marine industry at Princess Yachts, Nigel has always had a deep connection to the sea. His experience and passion for maritime safety make him an excellent choice to lead the lifeboat station.

The role of LOM is a vital one, ensuring the station maintains a constant state of operational readiness. Nigel will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of the station, authorising the launch of lifeboats, and leading the dedicated team of volunteers who keep the station running smoothly.

Nigel said: ‘I am incredibly proud to take over the position of Lifeboat Operations Manager for Plymouth RNLI. Having always known that the lifeboat was there should I ever need it, thankfully, I never did. I joined Plymouth RNLI as a Launch Authority in 2021 when my yacht racing days became fewer.

‘It is a privilege to step into this role and continue the great work that Chris has led over the years. I look forward to working with our amazing volunteers, including the crew, the shore-based teams, the water safety team, fundraisers, and the shop team. Together, we will build on their incredible efforts, ensuring we remain fully operational and continue saving lives at sea.’

Outgoing LOM, Chris Westall, joined Plymouth RNLI in February 2016 and became LOM in 2017. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in steering the station through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring it remained fully operational and ready to save lives at sea. Chris will continue to volunteer at Plymouth RNLI as a Launch Authority.

Reflecting on his time in the role, he said: ‘I am very pleased to be able to hand over the position of LOM to Nigel. He is very passionate about Plymouth RNLI, and I’m sure the station will continue to go from strength to strength. I will still be around as a Launch Authority to assist Nigel as and when needed.’

The team at Plymouth RNLI extends its heartfelt thanks to Chris for his years of dedicated leadership and commitment and warmly welcomes Nigel to his new role.

Notes to editors

Photos
  • Nigel Gray - Lifeboat Operations Manager
    Photo Credit RNLI / Darren Blight

  • (L-R) Chris Westall hands over to Nigel Gray
    Photo Credit RNLI / Darren Blight

Information

Plymouth is busy station based in the Old Custom House at Millbay Marina Village, Plymouth Lifeboat Station has two lifeboats, an all-weather Severn Class lifeboat Sybil Mullen Glover and an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat Annabel E Jones.

To find out more about Plymouth lifeboat station go to https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/plymouth-lifeboat-station

Plymouth RNLI Facebook page www.facebook.com/PlymouthRNLI

RNLI media contacts
(L-R) Chris Westall hands over to Nigel Gray

RNLI/Darren Blight

(L-R) Chris Westall hands over to Nigel Gray

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.

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