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Portpatrick RNLI go from strength to strength with newly qualified mechanic
Portpatrick RNLI is celebrating the successful qualification of volunteer crew member Andrew Blackwood, who has passed his Volunteer Mechanic Afloat assessment on the Shannon class 13-25 lifeboat Stella and Humfrey Berkley.
Andrew completed his assessment on 10 August, qualifying him to serve as an Afloat Mechanic during lifeboat shouts and training exercises.
The Afloat Mechanic is a vital seagoing role within an all-weather lifeboat crew. Responsible for operating, maintaining and troubleshooting the lifeboat’s engines, machinery and electrical systems, the mechanic also carries out running repairs and helps ensure the lifeboat remains safe and seaworthy during operations.
For an all-weather lifeboat, having a qualified mechanic on board is essential before the lifeboat can launch on a rescue. This makes the role a critical part of the crew’s ability to respond safely and effectively when someone needs help at sea.
Andrew’s new qualification strengthens the operational capability of Portpatrick RNLI, adding another trained and qualified volunteer to the seagoing crew.
Portpatrick Coxswain Andy Ross said:
'We’re delighted to congratulate Andrew on successfully completing his Volunteer Mechanic Afloat assessment. It’s a significant achievement and reflects the dedication and commitment he has shown throughout his training.
'Our mechanics play a vital role in keeping the lifeboat operational and seaworthy. Having another qualified mechanic strengthens our crew and our ability to respond when the call comes.
'We’re extremely proud of Andrew and grateful for the time and commitment he gives to Portpatrick RNLI.'
RNLI volunteers regularly train and develop their skills alongside their everyday lives, ensuring they are ready to respond when an emergency call is received.
Portpatrick RNLI congratulates Andrew on this excellent achievement and thanks him for his continued commitment to the station and to saving lives at sea.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Amanda Farley, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Portpatrick RNLI, [email protected]
Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok 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.