Eyemouth RNLI’s Celebrates Newly Qualified Coxswain

Eyemouth RNLI volunteer Dean Mark passed out as a coxswain on Monday, 4th May 2026.

After many training exercises at Eyemouth station, and courses at the RNLI College in Poole, Dean has completed his theory test and practical assessment. Dean had his final assessment with Coastal Lifeboat Trainer Alex Purves this afternoon when he instructed the lifeboat crew on anchoring practices. Dean is now qualified as an ALB (all-weather lifeboat) Coxswain, in charge of up to six crew. Dean said, "I am relieved that all the work and training over the years has paid off."

Dean is also a mechanic on our all-weather lifeboat 'Helen Hastings', and a helm on the inshore lifeboat 'Sheila', he volunteered to be on the lifeboat crew 20 years ago after being inspired by his grandfather, Alistair 'Spike' Crombie, who was on the crew for many years, and his brother Owen, another crew member.

Full time Coxswain/Mechanic at Eyemouth RNLI, Andrew Jamieson said, "It's great to have Dean passing out as coxswain after all his hard work in training to achieve the role on the Shannon class lifeboat. Having him available as a coxswain helps to build extra resilience in the station team, keeping our ALB team ready to respond to emergencies."

Eyemouth lifeboat station is celebrating it's 150th anniversary this year, the station was established in October 1876 "for the protection of the fishermen of the place, who are frequently caught by sudden storms before being able to reach the shelter of the river Eye."

Since 1876 the crew has launched the lifeboat 927 times, saved 146 lives, and assisted hundreds more.