Pwllheli RNLI Volunteer Qualifies as Shannon Class Lifeboat Mechanic

Long-serving Pwllheli RNLI volunteer Graeme Harold has reached a significant milestone after qualifying as a mechanic on the station’s Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, further enhancing the crew’s operational capability.

Graeme has served as part of the station’s shore crew for many years, including roles as head launcher and launch vehicle driver. His new qualification follows a comprehensive programme of practical training, exercises and formal assessment, equipping him with the skills and knowledge required to support the safe operation of Pwllheli RNLI’s Shannon class lifeboat, the Smith Brothers.

As a mechanic, Graeme will play a key role in maintaining the lifeboat’s operational readiness, overseeing the performance of its engines and critical onboard systems to ensure it can be launched safely and effectively during training exercises and emergency call-outs.

The Shannon is the RNLI’s most advanced all-weather lifeboat, combining speed, agility and cutting-edge technology to support lifesaving operations in challenging conditions.

Graeme Harold said:
‘It’s been a big learning curve since first stepping aboard the Shannon class lifeboat two years ago. I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of my family and all the crew at Pwllheli.’

Pwllheli RNLI Coxswain Alwyn Roberts said:
‘Graeme’s achievement reflects the commitment and teamwork at the heart of Pwllheli RNLI. Qualifying as a Shannon class mechanic is a significant accomplishment that requires perseverance, technical skill and a strong commitment to continual learning and development.

Throughout his training, Graeme has shown a consistently positive attitude and a real dedication to ensuring our lifeboat remains ready for service whenever it is needed. The mechanic role is vital to the safe and effective operation of the Shannon, and having another qualified mechanic at the station is a real asset to our crew.

Every qualification gained by our volunteers strengthens our search and rescue capability and supports our mission of saving lives at sea. We are delighted to see Graeme reach this milestone and look forward to his continued contribution at the station.’

With Graeme Harold now qualified as a Shannon class mechanic, Pwllheli RNLI has further strengthened its operational capability across the Llŷn Peninsula and surrounding waters, ensuring the station remains ready to respond day and night in all conditions.

Ends.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Caroline Jones, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Wales & West, [email protected]

Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07977 728 315, [email protected]

Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07786 668829, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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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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