Aberdovey RNLI lifeboat mechanic downs tools after 19 years
After 19 years as Lifeboat Mechanic, Wil Stockford is stepping down from the role at Aberdovey RNLI. Wil hands over the spanners to fellow Helm Dan Stevens, while continuing to serve the station as a volunteer inshore lifeboat helm.
Wil’s RNLI journey began at Barmouth RNLI in March 2004. He joined Aberdovey as inshore lifeboat crew in September 2006 and took on the additional responsibility of lifeboat mechanic in 2007 — a role he has carried out with dedication and good humour ever since.
Over nearly two decades, Wil has played a vital part in keeping the station’s inshore lifeboat rescue-ready, ensuring the highest standards of maintenance and safety for crew and casualties alike.
His commitment behind the scenes has supported countless launches and helped safeguard the volunteers who depend on the lifeboat being in top condition. Reflecting on his time as Mechanic, Wil said:
‘Having been in the role for 19 years I think it's time for a fresh set of spanners to look after our lifeboat.
‘I've been lucky enough to work with some of the best volunteers and coastal staff over the years and have some great memories of inspectors, engineers and technicians that have visited our little corner of Wales. Some even responding to the pager when carrying out mechanic cover, only to find it was a crew meeting page!
‘I've really enjoyed being part of a great team and wish Dan all the best in the role and if he gets stuck with anything, I'll happily come and hold his socket set.’
Dan Stevens will now take on the mechanic’s role, bringing his own experience and enthusiasm to the position. The station looks forward to supporting Dan as he steps into the post and continues the proud tradition of volunteer service at Aberdovey RNLI.
Although stepping back from his technical responsibilities, Wil very much remains part of the operational team and volunteer crew. He will continue to serve as an inshore lifeboat helm – bringing his experience and steady leadership to the crew on the water.
Freddie Collier, Lifeboat Operations Manager at the station said:
‘Everyone at Aberdovey RNLI would like to thank Wil for his outstanding commitment as lifeboat mechanic over the years and we look forward to continuing to serve alongside him at the station.
‘We know Dan will be a great asset to us taking over from Wil and will enable our lifeboat to always be ready to respond when the call for help comes in.’
RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Gemma Nock, Aberdovey RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on [email protected] or 07875 155669.
Alternatively, you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
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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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