Plymouth RNLI celebrates Coxswain pass out

Since joining the crew 6 years ago Cameron has shown continuous commitment and dedication becoming an ILB Helm, ALB Navigator and Assessor Trainer.

This means Cameron can now take command of our Severn Class All Weather Lifeboat whilst on service or exercise. The role of Coxswain is an important and responsible one, often having to make tough decisions in potentially hazardous conditions and only comes after many hours of training.

At 24 Cameron is one of the youngest Coxswains in the RNLI. Cameron hails from a lifeboating family. His father is the Coxswain of St Mary’s Lifeboat, and his mother is Chair of Fundraising on the Isles of Scilly.

All the volunteers at Plymouth RNLI congratulate Cameron on his achievement.

Speaking after returning from his assessment Cam said “Well after a long evening afloat. I’m proud to complete my Coxswain pass out on the Plymouth Lifeboat. Massively grateful to all those involved in getting here, you know who you are! Especially Sam for the present.”

Coxswain/Mechanic Simon Jeffery added “Cameron has been on station now for over 6 years. In that time, he’s shown his ability to improvise and adapt to many a situation and being as young as he is, his mature, intelligent manner of managing difficult situations along with his experience and knowledge has helped many.

I would like to congratulate Coxswain Cam on his success with his performance last night, he showed a great attitude and management in becoming a Coxswain of an All Weather lifeboat following in his father’s footsteps, I’m sure Pete will relish the Coxswain cover for Christmas leave!!”

Retired Coxswain Dave Milford said “I would like to pass on my congratulations to Cameron who passed out as a Coxswain at Plymouth today we all know the work that is involved in getting there. Cam came to us from the Isles of Scilly a few years ago while I was cox. His DNA in boat handling spoke for itself he soon progressed to Helm of the Atlantic and now to Coxswain. I have been retired for nearly three years, but I keep my eye on things and it’s lovely to see Cam and those like him progressing and keeping the good name of Plymouth station upheld something I was very proud of. Also, a big pat on the back to Simon and the team for putting a lot of hard work in training congratulations to all.”

Pete Hicks, Cameron's father and St Mary’s Coxswain said “It was never in doubt in my eyes as I know his skill set. We are super proud of him and his achievements and how he's growing into a very responsible job with Cattewater.

All his professional skills and the boating experience he's learnt here in Scilly have put him on a solid base for the roles he does and loves doing.

Obviously, I know what he's just achieved and it's something he will excel in. I know he is an integral part of the Plymouth Lifeboat crew so I'm sure will be a fantastic addition to the Coxswain team.”

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone John Baldry, Plymouth RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07792649768 or [email protected] or Darren Blight, Plymouth RNLI volunteer Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer on 07984399860 or [email protected] or Emma Haines, RNLI Regional Communications Manager, on 07786 668847 or [email protected]; or Amy Caldwell, RNLI Regional Communications Lead, on 07920 818807 or [email protected] or the RNLI Duty Press Office on 01202 336789.

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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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