Falmouth RNLI Lifeboat volunteer becomes latest qualified coxswain

Elliot joined the crew in 2010 and spent time training in all aspects of the RNLI's sea going operations, becoming an inshore lifeboat helm eight years ago and then qualifying as an all-weather lifeboat navigator three years later.

His coxswain training included, amongst others, two separate modules, a Command and a Search and Rescue course, both primarily based afloat and lasted 18 months.

Elliot said: 'I was very fortunate to grow up next to the water and I spend every spare minute I have on or next to the water either yacht racing, cruising or just exploring the coast on foot. I joined Falmouth Lifeboat back in 2010 and have enjoyed every minute and haven’t stopped learning.

‘It was a huge honour to even be asked if I would consider undertaking coxswain training. 18 months later and lots of intensive training on all aspects of the boat and a huge commitment from all the crew to help me train, I’m incredibly proud to have passed-out as a coxswain. The assessment was challenging with multiple scenarios thrown at me and the crew continuously but thankfully all the training paid off.'

The station is incredibly proud of Elliot, who joins recently qualified coxswains Adam West and Nick Head to ensure continued rescue cover from Falmouth.

Notes to editors

· Photo of Elliot Holman credit: Simon Culliford

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Glen Reed, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07725 693737 or [email protected] or Emma Haines, Regional Media Officer on +441752 854457 or [email protected] or 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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter 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.