Congratulations to the new full-time RNLI Moelfre Coxswain Vince Jones.
Vince joined Moelfre lifeboat station aged 17, as a volunteer in January 2000, a 3rd generation crew member; following in the footsteps of his Taid, Dad and older brother.
Vince started working full-time with the RNLI in July 2002 as the youngest ever full-time lifeboat mechanic at the age of 19. During this time, he became an ILB helm and later, went on to train to become one of Moelfre’s youngest Deputy Coxswains at the age of 26, on what was then, the station's Tyne class lifeboat.
In Vince’s own words, “I am immensely proud and privileged to take the helm as the full-time Coxswain of Moelfre lifeboat. With the recent passing of our good friend and the previous full-time coxswain, Alan, I feel honoured to be able to continue with the amazing work he’s done for our station and within the community. Over my 24 years here, Alan was a constant source of inspiration, he taught me everything I know about lifeboats, particularly navigation, search and rescue. Without his help, I wouldn’t be where I am today".
He continued: "Joining the lifeboat crew within the community of Moelfre was something most children growing up here couldn’t wait to do! I only dreamed of becoming the Coxswain of Moelfre lifeboat, with its prominent and distinguished maritime history. I’d sincerely like to thank Andy, the Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) and the crew from the bottom of my heart for the support they’ve shown me over the years. I'd especially like to thank Martin (Bonty) who has honourably covered as lifeboat Coxswain for the last four months after losing his best friend, Alan. He’s supported me at the station and as a good friend, and in my decision to apply for the role, despite the sad and difficult times we’ve faced".
He added: "Seeing all the crew pull together and supporting one another, all while keeping our lifeboats on service, saving lives at sea and within our community, all with such strength, courage, and resilience, was the deciding factor in my decision to apply for the Coxswain's position. My amazing wife Siân and our three children William, Max and Izzy have sacrificed so much for me to fulfil my passion as a full-time Mechanic, and going forward, as Coxswain. Without their love, understanding, support (and patience!) it wouldn’t have been possible. I look forward to the privilege of standing alongside the crew as their new full-time lifeboat Coxswain and working with our RNLI volunteer family at Moelfre, in this new chapter for the station”.
For further information, please contact Phil Williams, Moelfre Lifeboat Press Officer, on 07773 979910
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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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.