New coxswain qualification achieved at Cromer RNLI

Cromer lifeboat station is proud to announce that volunteer crew member Kevin Johnson has successfully passed out as coxswain on the all-weather lifeboat, marking a significant milestone in his RNLI journey.

The role of coxswain carries ultimate responsibility for the lifeboat, crew, and rescue operations at sea, requiring exceptional seamanship, leadership, and decision-making under pressure. Kevin’s appointment ensures that the Cromer RNLI station continues to be in safe and capable hands.

Kevin first joined the Cromer lifeboat crew in June 2016, driven by a long-standing admiration for the RNLI and its lifesaving work. Living locally and regularly witnessing lifeboat launches, he was inspired to contribute to an organisation that plays such a vital role in keeping people safe at sea and supporting the coastal community.

Alongside his new role as coxswain, Kevin continues to serve in several key operational positions, including Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) Helm, All-Weather Lifeboat (ALB) Mechanic, and ALB Navigator. His breadth of experience and commitment have made him a highly valued member of the station.

Speaking about his achievement, Kevin said:
“Being part of the Cromer RNLI family means a huge amount. It’s a great team with a strong sense of community, support, and pride. Everyone looks out for each other, and it’s an honour to work alongside such dedicated people helping those in need.”

John Redmond, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Cromer RNLI, added:
“Kevin’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment over the years have been outstanding. Passing out as coxswain is a significant achievement and reflects the hard work and training he has put in. We are delighted to have him take on this responsibility and continue to serve the community with such skill and leadership.”

The RNLI is a charity that relies on volunteers like Kevin to save lives at sea, and this latest achievement highlights the dedication and commitment of those who serve along the UK’s coastline.

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.

RNLI Media Contacts

RNLI Media contacts

For more information, please contact Clare Stagg, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [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.