Cromer RNLI Volunteers Celebrate New Operational Qualifications

Cromer RNLI volunteers Emma Tuck and Fiona Abbs have both reached important milestones at the lifeboat station, qualifying in demanding new roles that strengthen the station’s lifesaving capability.

Emma, who has volunteered at Cromer for eight years, has recently qualified as a winch operator. This completes a significant set of operational responsibilities, making her the first female volunteer at the station to serve as Launch Authority, Head Launcher, Tractor Driver and Winch Operator.

As Launch Authority, Emma plays a key part in the decision-making process for each service call, working with Humber Coastguard and the coxswain or helm to assess conditions, crew availability and operational readiness. As Head Launcher, she oversees every stage of the launch and recovery of the lifeboats, ensuring the safety of crew, shore teams and equipment. Her tractor driver and winch operator roles allow her to support launches and recoveries in all weather conditions.

Emma said: “I’m proud to be the first woman to become a Launch Authority and to hold all these roles. I couldn’t have achieved it without the support of my crew mates, who are like family.”

Fiona, who has volunteered at the station for more than five years, has also recently qualified as a Head Launcher, alongside her work as ILB (inshore lifeboat) crew. She becomes the first female volunteer at Cromer to hold both roles. Fiona also continues to support operations as a member of the shore crew.

Fiona said: “Passing out as Head Launcher is a real honour. Whether I’m on the ILB or helping to lead a launch from shore, I’m proud to be part of a team that supports each other on every callout.”

The achievements of both volunteers highlight the dedication of Cromer RNLI’s crew and the continued commitment of the station to developing its volunteers in key operational roles.

Paul Watling, Cromer RNLI Coxswain said: “Women have played a vital role in the RNLI for generations, from early lifesaving heroes like Grace Darling to the volunteers, lifeguards and fundraisers of today. Here at Cromer, that legacy continues. Emma and Fiona are the latest in a long line of women who’ve helped save lives at sea, and it’s fantastic to see them stepping into these key operational roles. Their hard work, professionalism and commitment make a real difference every time the pagers go off.”

RNLI Media contacts

For more information, please contact Clare Stagg, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [email protected]

Key facts about Cromer RNLI

The Cromer Lifeboat Station was established in 1804 and was not taken over by the Institution from the Norfolk Shipwreck Association until 1857. Since 1923 there have been two lifeboats at Cromer, and currently there is a D Class inshore boat and Tamar all-weather lifeboat. The outstanding figure in the history of Cromer is Henry George Blogg who became a member of the Cromer crew in 1894 at the age of 18. He was coxswain from 1909-1947. During his 53 years as a lifeboat crew member, the Cromer lifeboats had been on service 387 times and rescued 873 lives. His record is without equal in the history of the Institution. No lifeboat crew member has received so many decorations for gallantry. Cromer RNLI lifeboat station was founded in 1804 and became part of the RNLI in 1824, and in that time its crews have launched the lifeboats 1435 times and saved 1294 lives.

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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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.