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Jamie becomes the latest helm to pass out at RNLI Blyth

Lifeboats News Release

Jamie Shepherd has become the latest volunteer crew member to become a helm.

RNLI/Paul Whittle

Jamie Shepherd (left) with RNLI assessor Matt Blanchard after completing his pass out
Jamie has been a volunteer crew member at Blyth for 4 1/2 years.

On Tuesday, Jamie successfully completed his pass out on the D class inshore lifeboat, this follows a year of extensive training to become a helm.

The pass out consists of carrying out several tasks set by RNLI assessor Matt Blanchard to ensure that the helm can safely control the inshore lifeboat and instruct the volunteer crew according to set procedures.

A written exam also has to be passed.

Terry Healy, Lifeboat Operations Manager at RNLI Blyth commented;
'I'd like congratulate Jamie on becoming our newest D Class helm at Blyth. As a trainee helm a lot of hard work is required to successfully complete a pass out. Well done from everyone at RNLI Blyth on achieving the required standard.'

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Robin Palmer, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07801 290638 or [email protected] or Clare Hopps, Regional Media Officer (North and East) on 07824 518641 or [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.


Key facts about the RNLI

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. 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 142,700 lives.

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