Like father, like daughter lifeguarding together on the north east coast

Brent Mayman who is also an NVBLQ training assessor has watched Vivi follow in his footsteps and is now an accomplished senior lifeguard herself.

Starting the Journey

'I became a lifeguard about four years ago,' says Vivi. 'I’d seen my dad do it for a few years before and just thought it looked really cool.'

Brent recalls being proud when Vivi took the plunge: 'She was determined. She did her NVBLQ in the North Sea, in winter! I knew she’d stick with it she’s always been involved in public service and had the swimming background for it.'

For Brent, the journey started even earlier. 'I was a lifeguard in Queensland back when I was at university, but it was actually my Masters swim coach who was an RNLI supervisor who encouraged me to train and join up here.'

Lifesaving, Side by Side

Now, father and daughter not only share a passion for keeping people safe on the beach they’ve even trained together. Vivi remembers a moment that still makes her laugh: 'We were doing our run-swim-run fitness test, and Dad stepped on a weever fish but he just kept going!'

Training together has created some unforgettable memories. 'Vivi’s even led sessions I’ve taken part in,' says Brent. 'It’s pretty special.'

More Than a Job

For both, the RNLI lifeguard role is about more than water safety. 'What I enjoy most is helping the public and getting to meet all the lovely people we work with.' says Vivi.

Brent agrees: 'I love board patrols and sea swims, but what really sticks with me is seeing new lifeguards go from training to patrolling a beach.'

The RNLI Family

Working together as lifeguards is something neither takes for granted. 'Not everyone gets to work with their dad.' says Vivi, 'and I think it’s pretty amazing that I get to.'

Brent adds, 'We might do things slightly differently, but the goal is always the same keeping people safe. Vivi’s got great instincts and really cares about beach users, and that’s what matters most.'

Advice to Future Lifeguards

For young people thinking about joining the RNLI, both Brent and Vivi are full of encouragement.

'Just give it your best go,” says Vivi. 'You’ll learn so much and have fun with some brilliant people.'

Brent adds, 'It’s challenging but it’s worth it. And you’ll be surrounded by people who support you and believe in what you’re doing.'

RNLI lifeguards in 2024, carried out over 2M (2,349,150) preventative actions. In addition, they attended 13,135 incidents, helped 17,068 people, and saved 85 lives.

RNLI world-class lifeguards patrol 249 beaches around the coast of the UK and the Channel Islands. They’re here to keep you and your loved ones safe, in and out of the water, by providing first aid and sharing vital safety advice. So, if you’re looking for a safe beach near you, check out our locations.

Find Your Nearest RNLI Lifeguarded Beaches

RNLI Media contacts Jess Curtis, RNLI and Regional Engagements North and East, Lifeboat Press Officer at Wells: Tel 07483488243 Email: [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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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.