Silloth RNLI congratulate new volunteer tractor driver

Elaine and Don Wilkinson Atlantic 85 lifeboat launched at 7.45pm with the help of the volunteer crew so that trainer assessor Mike Almond could oversee the whole process, watching Steven closely.

Steven was able to launch the lifeboat safely into the water using the Country tractor on station. He drove the lifeboat and crew down the slipway outside the station.

Once the lifeboat was in the water, Steven completed various maneuvers to show the assessor that he was competent within his role at the station.

Chris Clark, Helmsman at Silloth RNLI took the lifeboat out and completed a towing exercise for the lifeboat crew onboard.

Chris Clark, Helmsman for Silloth lifeboat said: "We are all pleased to hear that Steven passed, he is a valuable member of our team as are all our volunteer crew members. We all work together to ensure the lifeboat is launched when needed to save lives."

Once the lifeboat crew had completed the exercise, they used their radio onboard to make communication with the volunteers on shore to let them know that their intention was to recover the lifeboat from the water. Steven was able to safely and efficiently recover the lifeboat from the water at 8.15pm with the help of the volunteer shore crew.

The shore crew and lifeboat crew then washed the lifeboat, trailer and tractor ready for service.

After a debrief, Steven was delighted to give the good news to his fellow crew members that he had passed the assessment.

If you require assistance or see anyone in trouble on the coast, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. RNLI lifeboats and crew are available 24 hours a day to assist those in need.

The RNLI charity 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.