Three new RNLI inshore lifeboat crew members pass out at Pwllheli RNLI

Two of the three passed out as shore crew, essential roles for the operation of the lifeboats by providing critical support for the safe and efficient launch and recovery of lifeboats during call outs and training.

Caroline Jones, who has been a shore crew member since joining the RNLI as a volunteer in 2022, passed out as a launch vehicle driver. She said:

‘I never thought a few years ago that I’d be doing this, I hadn’t driven a tracked vehicle before; it’s completely different and uses a joy stick, not a steering wheel.

'Volunteering for the RNLI has become an important part of my life. I’ve also come to it later in life than most; you’re never too old to learn something new! I’d thoroughly recommend becoming an RNLI volunteer, be that on the operational side such as this or with station visits or fundraising.'

Dave Hill passed his first assessment since joining the RNLI last year and said:

‘I’m extremely pleased to have passed out as an inshore lifeboat shore crew member. I now hope to progress to launch vehicle driver for the inshore lifeboat. I’m thankful to everyone at Pwllheli RNLI for their encouragement and support.'

Paul Kitteringham has become an inshore lifeboat boat crew member, and following his pass out is now a new member of the D class lifeboat crew. A seasoned sailor and yacht skipper, Paul said:

‘Since childhood I’ve spent as much of my free time on the water as possible and always pledged to become lifeboat crew should I be fortunate enough to live at the coast. Since moving to Pwllheli, it was only a matter of time before I volunteered.

'Joining the crew is a huge honour and I have been amazed at the dedication and commitment of all involved. Converting my experience to the RNLI way has been a learning curve and one I’m enjoying immensely.'

The D class inshore lifeboat is often described as the workhorse of the RNLI; launched from the beach using the ToolTrack launch vehicle, she is highly manoeuvrable and usually operates closer to shore than our all-weather lifeboats. She comes into her own for searches and rescues in the surf, shallow water and confined locations - often around cliffs, rocks and caves.

Notes to editors

Pwllheli lifeboat station has been operating since 1891. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/pwllheli-lifeboat-station

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Caroline Jones, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on [email protected] or 07753 397977.

Alternativey you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Photo

Photos attached: Caroline Jones with RNLI assessor Simon Bunting. Dave Hill with RNLI assessor Simon Bunting (standing in front of Tool Track launch vehicle). Paul Kitteringham RNLI assessor Simon Bunting (indoors).

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

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