ISSUE 588 SUMMER 2009

First aid for the 21st century

Lifesaving in the surf Top boarders lead the way

WEATHERING SUNK IN SECONDS LIFEBOAT HEROES MONTY’S SIMPLE PLUS THE STORM – PAGE 12 PAGE 24 PAGE 31 DREAM – PAGE 46 INF001-588 1

Dear Reader How confident are you in the water? Perhaps you commitment (6), epitomised by Chris Boundy and are practically a fish, slipping into the surf with John Dugard who were recently awarded Silver ease – or do you prefer to cling to the support of Medals for Gallantry (12). THE RNLI A charity registered in and Wales terra firma? The Lifeboat production team and colleagues (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity If you’re not an experienced sea user, our recently tried for ourselves some basic lifeguarding number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland. feature on page 34 will help translate what you’ll skills when we attended an RNLI Hit the surf The Royal National Lifeboat Institution was founded in 1824 as the National find if you do visit our shores. Of course, when day (pictured). This educational beach safety Institution for the Preservation of Life from RNLI lifeboat crews and lifeguards venture into experience is usually run for children but was an Shipwreck. Today, it provides the 24-hour the water it’s usually in the least hospitable of eye opener for us all, from landlubber to sailor. on-call search and rescue service out to 100 nautical miles from the coast of the UK and conditions (23–29 and 31) so their training and For those of you who feel thoroughly at home RoI; on the tidal reaches of the River Thames; equipment must be second to none – perhaps on or in the water, you may remember I hinted and on selected inland waterways plus a even award winning (18). at something special brewing for you in the RNLI seasonal lifeguard service on appropriate Unlike modern lifeboat volunteers, lifeguards membership department. Have a look at page 16 beaches in England and Wales. The RNLI is independent from Government and tend to have virtually grown up in the water. The for details – and tell your friends! continues to rely on voluntary contributions long tradition of surf lifesaving in the UK has and legacies for its income. brought to the RNLI some astounding skills and Chairman: Admiral The Lord Boyce gcb obe dl Liz Cook Chief Executive: Andrew Freemantle cbe Editor CONTACT DETAILS • RNLI Headquarters: telephone 0845 122 6999, email [email protected] or write to RNLI, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ • Supporter Care team, for membership, donations, Lifeboat Lottery enquiries: telephone 0845 121 4999, email [email protected] or write c/o Headquarters address above • Legacies team, for finding out about gifts in Wills: telephone 01202 663032, email [email protected] or write to John Marshall c/o Headquarters address • Family association, for retired staff and operational volunteers: telephone 01202 662222 • Lifeboat Enthusiasts’ Society: email [email protected] • The Editor: telephone 01202 662254, email [email protected] or write c/o Headquarters address above • Advertising in the Lifeboat: Landmark Publishing Services, telephone 020 7692 9292, email [email protected]. Marinecall weather forecasts Friends of the RNLI ShP for Charity – mobile phone 60% of profits on 10-day sailing forecasts Some special offers that can benefit recycling go to the RNLI. Call 0871 200 3985 you and the RNLI There are around rnli.org.uk Netstationers 100M mobile Amazon phones lying At least 5% of your order value is donated 5% of order value is donated to the RNLI. redundant in the to the RNLI via www.rnli.org.uk/amazon www.rnli.netstationers.co.uk UK, with 15% of Bishop Skinner Marine The Recycling Factory those thrown away You get discounted insurance and the RNLI Recycle your old toner and inkjet every year. By receives 2.5% of sales and renewals cartridges. To find out more or request recycling your old www.bishopskinner.com 0800 783 8057 envelopes contact [email protected] or handset with freephone 0800 091 0696 ShP for Charity, you NEW! Goodyear tyres will not only help RNLI members can receive a 5% discount Volvo the environment online using code ‘RNLI09’ You get a discount on a new car, the RNLI but also the RNLI. at www.hiqonline.co.uk (See page 22) receives £500. www.rnli.org.uk/volvo Simply put your old mobile in a jiffy Lifeboat Tea Wedding list giving bag, with a covering 4p is paid to the RNLI for every pack sold, Set up a charity donation wedding list note stating the or all proceeds if bought at an RNLI shop www.weddinglistgiving.com or call phone is for the RNLI, and send it to www.williamsontea.com 01582 813810 01273 486015 FREEPOST, ShP , Lancaster. If you would like to set up a collection scheme Cover: Senior Lifeguard Robin Kent is Which? Switch Loch Fyne in your workplace or school please call You save money on your fuel bills and the promoting the RNLI to fellow surfers Various promotions in all Loch Fyne 07956 338669 to find out more or go to (see page 6) restaurants, see RNLI receives £10–20. Quote RNLI when www.shpforcharity.co.uk/rnli. Photo: Kirstin Prisk www.lochfyne.com/lifeboatappeal you visit www.whichswitch.co.uk/rnli 2 CONTENTS CONTENTS 3 Photo: RNLI/Wick Photo: Monty Halls Monty Photo: Photo: RNLI/Colin Watson 14 5218 34 Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard RNLI/Nigel Photo: Photo: Holland RNLI/Dan Photo: Greg Butler Greg Photo: Photo: RNLI/Aaron McCracken RNLI/Aaron Photo: Photo: Phill Drew 34 46 13 28 Photo: BBC 23 the Lifeboat NEWS including FEATURES RESCUE VOICES REGULARS 12 RNLI finances update 6 SPIRIT 4 INSIGHT 46 MONTY’S MARINE LIFE 31 REVIEW SUMMER 2009 ISSUE 588 The Lifeboat is published quarterly by the RNLI, In their element Rescues from Kilkeel to Hastings Self sufficiency and community spirit Stunning portraits and heroic tales West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ. 13 Skydiving at 90+ Surfers making the sea safer © RNLI 2009. All rights reserved. Reproduction is 23 WADING INTO DANGER 49 ABOVE AND BEYOND 39 LOTTERY permitted with the prior consent of the RNLI. Opinions 14 New facility saves time and money 18 CLOSE UP Swift-water rescuers in action Meet the new RNLI Chairman Win big through your support! expressed by authors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Care is taken to ensure that editorial 15 150 years of lifesaving Big sick, little sick information is correct at the time of going to press but is The revolution 24 MUDDY WATERS 51 YOUR SHOUT 40 LAUNCHES subject to change.  Sinking in seconds on a chilly Thames A thought-provoking letter Three months' of lifeboating activity Any products or services advertised in the Lifeboat by 34 COASTAL LIFE at a glance third parties are not in any way endorsed by the RNLI and Reading the sea 26 TOUGH CHOICES the RNLI shall not be responsible for the accuracy of any Getting priorities right as kayakers drift information contained in such advertisements nor has it , waves and currents 52 THEN AND NOW investigated or verified any of the information. Celebrating calligraphy Blind and partially sighted readers can choose 28 FLOATING FIREBALL to receive an audio tape or CD version as well as People and pet in peril the magazine – this is a free service. All recipients of the Lifeboat also receive RNLI Compass for their region. News in other regions can be viewed at rnli.org.uk. Offshore members, and those Governors who opt to, receive Offshore too. Members of the children’s club Storm receive Storm Force News. Occasional donors receive Lifeline. Publications and Design Manager: Mark Dunne Editor: Liz Cook Assistant Editors/Researchers/Writers: Mairéad Dwane, Jon Jones, Anne Millman, Rory Stamp, Claire Vandvik, Carol Waterkeyn, Jane Smythson Proofreader: Anne Millman Design Manager: Laura Wiltshire Designers: Stephen Berriman; Jonathan Lotriet Publications Assistant: Tracy Carey Print Manager: Sonia Harris Printer: Pindar plc, Scarborough. 4 INSIGHT INSIGHT 5

6 CRYSTAL CLEAN Prawn trawler Crystal Star started taking on water in the Irish Sea on 18 March and lifeboats from Kilkeel (B class Frank William Walton) and Port St Mary (Trent class Gough Ritchie II) were launched to her aid. Photo: RNLI Kilkeel arrived first and Port St Mary was stood down. The salvage tug Intrepid B was nearby with a powerful 1 HASTINGS DOUBLE 6 emergency pump, so the tug, the Kilkeel lifeboat and a Hastings’ relief Mersey class lifeboat rescue helicopter from Dublin worked together to transfer Royal Shipwright was called out the pump onboard the trawler. Once the water ingress on two medevacs in the same week. was under control, the lifeboat escorted Crystal Star back On 12 March, the lifeboat crew 2 3 to a safe berth in Kilkeel (pictured). brought a fisherman safely ashore, having stabilised his injured ankle. 5 This was the first shout for the 1 station’s new Coxswain, Steve Warne. 4 Four days later, he was in command again as the lifeboat launched to the The RNLI’s lifeboat crews and lifeguards carry

Photo: RNLI car transporter City of Rome, which out thousands of rescues every year (see pages had a crew member suffering from 40–41 for launches). These are just a handful severe stomach pains. The man was of incidents recently caught on camera from brought onboard the lifeboat and his around the UK and RoI. See pages 23–29 condition treated and monitored for for some truly inspiring rescues at Kessock, the 40-minute passage to shore and Gravesend, Newport Sands and Pwllheli. 5 SURFERS SAVED a waiting ambulance. Three surfers got caught in a rip off Devon’s Barricane beach on

Photo: RNLI 31 January. One got out of trouble and made it to shore but his friends Photo: Michael MacSweeney/Provision Photo: RNLI

Photo: Tommy Campbell Tommy Photo: were washed away, managing to grab on to a buoy 200m from shore. Ilfracombe’s Mersey class lifeboat Spirit of Derbyshire was launched and soon found the two men. The Coxswain manoeuvred the lifeboat close inshore in the 1.5m surf, while the crew threw lines to the surfers and pulled them onboard. They had been in the water for over 2 hours. A Coastguard rescue helicopter is pictured winching the casualties from the lifeboat. They were taken to hospital and treated for .

2 THE RIGHT DIRECTION 4 SWEET RESCUE 3 HARBOUR SEARCH New Quay’s Mersey and D class lifeboats were requested to launch at 3.45pm on Perranporth Lifeguard Deshko Matthews was Crosshaven’s B class lifeboat Miss Betty 1 February after reports that a parachutist, on patrol on 6 April when he noticed a young is pictured searching for a man in Cork jumping from 150m cliffs, had crashed. The surfer being dragged out past the breaking harbour after a car fell off the cross- lifeboats searched the area between the Old waves by a . The strong offshore wind river ferry on 8 March. The driver of the Lookout and Cwmtydu. The D class’s crew started to blow the teenager out to sea. Deshko car was recovered immediately, and the found the parachute, before a crew member immediately went in on a rescue board and lifeboat launched to help search for the onboard the Mersey spotted the man, through paddled through the surf to bring him safely back passenger. Despite the best efforts of binoculars, half way up the cliff surrounded by to shore. The young man thanked Deshko, and the RNLI and other agencies the man's undergrowth. The RNLI volunteers were then returned an hour later with a huge Easter egg to body was never found. able to direct an RAF rescue helicopter to the show his appreciation. best place for winching him to safety.

6 SPIRIT SPIRIT 7 Photo: Kirstin Prisk Kirstin Photo: In their element Surfing is often a way of life for those brought up by the sea. It’s also become a tool for lifesaving. Claire Vandvik finds out about the joys and the dangers of the waves

Surfers were once dismissed as beach bums but now Thrill of the chase everyone’s getting involved – from city slickers to Finding the right place for that day’s surf takes young families. On a good day at the beach you’ll patience and perseverance. Drustan explains: see stand-up surfers, kitesurfers, paddleboarders, ‘Conditions change every day so one beach can bodyboarders and kayakers. People from all over the be more favourable one day and another the next. UK and RoI go on holiday specifically to surf. Sometimes, sheltered beaches can suddenly become Worldwide competitions and company attractive. It’s usual to be a bit cloak and dagger and sponsorship have even made surfing a rewarding not tell everyone!’ career. Relaxed, self-deprecating and fun-loving they But aren’t there forecasts? ‘You can try to may be but when you examine an experienced surfer forecast by looking at the low weather more carefully you discover years of honed skill and systems developing and the wind and . There are fitness, dedication and knowledge. also websites that measure the rise and fall of surf Then there’s the lifesaving. Surfers and buoys but they aren’t always that accurate. People bodyboarders, including top champions, make up a usually go on a surfing safari, going from beach to high percentage of the RNLI lifeguarding team – a beach in search of the best.’ team now covering 141 beaches in England and The knowledge that each wave is unique Wales who aided 11,027 people in 2008. also seems to be at the heart of an indefatigable Surfing’s growing popularity is partly thanks to passion for surfing. ‘You’re out in the elements in an it being easier to access. are cheaper than environment that is unpredictable. No two waves ever and their quality has much improved so it’s now are ever the same so there’s no sense of it being possible to surf throughout the year – even in the repetitive – you are always drawn to the next wave chill waters of January and February. And at more and and what it will bring. Riding the wave is a surreal more beaches, anyone can simply hire the equipment feeling. levels are so high, it’s all and rush into the sea. consuming and all about doing it to the best of your RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor and veteran surfer capabilities,’ says Drustan. Drustan Ward explains the outcome: ‘In years gone by, surfers were locals with sea knowledge so they Care and respect could pretty well look after themselves but as its RNLI lifeguards can boast many former champion popularity rockets RNLI lifeguards and experienced surfers and high-profile, sponsored competitors Photo: mickeysmith.co.uk surfers are having to look after them.’ among their number. So what’s the appeal of Drustan has surfing in his genes: ‘When an lifeguarding for them? Surfing comes with a strong ‘Being in the sea makes you feel at ease. Australian brought the first surfboard to the UK in ethos – a love of and respect for the sea, often a It’s such a peaceful place to be.’ the early 1950s he visited Bude lifesaving club and deep care for environmental matters, and a strong gave the local youngsters lessons. My mum was one community feel. Surfer and Senior Lifeguard Robin Kent (pictured above and right) of the first – if not the first – female stand-up surfer Drustan believes lifeguarding is a natural in the country!’ progression of this lifestyle. ‘When we’ve taken so MDLBM0607FVCN1Z0:MDLBM0607FVCN1Z0 27/5/09 16:51 Page 1

SPIRIT 9

The Surf hire safety Key dangers and tips for novice surfers: * scheme is a joint • get to know the layout of the beach – high can initiative of the # from £299pp hide dangers 4 Malta RNLI and the British rd • no locals in the water? There’s probably a good reason 2 weeks on Half Board with a 3 week FREE Surfing Association, • always surf between the black and white-chequered and aims to improve flags at a lifeguarded beach standards of hire • flat water could indicate a rip current – understand sea equipment and conditions and where to enter the water training for the •  never abandon your board if you get into trouble – it’s public. Find out a vital piece of safety equipment. Keep hold of it with more at one hand and raise the other while shouting for help. surfhiresafety.co.uk.

much enjoyment from surfing it’s good to now look after boards are large! At over 3m long, they can carry people and to make it possible and safer for them to two people if necessary, and each paddle takes the have the same kind of fun. We’re sharing the joy.’ He also user a long way quickly. admits, though: ‘Sometimes you’ll see a really nice wave It’s no mean feat to manoeuvre one but, as Robin when you’re on duty but you can’t go out on it. You have explains: ‘We’ve brought our knowledge of a standard to watch others enjoying it and wait your turn!’ surfboard and adapted it to the rescue board Surfer and RNLI Senior Lifeguard Robin Kent is going so that we use it as effectively as even further by fronting a new campaign to reach the possible.’ (See page 26 for a real- surfing world. He leads something of a double life: life example from one of the ‘I work on a building site through the Winter but I’m RNLI’s newer recruits.) a lifeguard in the Summer. I’ve been a lifeguard since The RNLI is working th !^ Stay for 4 weeks on Half Board and receive a FREE upgrade to Full Board for the 4 week the RNLI took on Carrick beaches in 2001 so this is my hard to support grass-roots eighth season and I love it. It keeps me fit and I get to development of such skills DEPARTURES: July 2009 - April 2010 Malta sits in the heart of the Mediterranean and is blessed with spend so much time in the sea.’ through the UK’s volunteer blue seas, warm sunshine, modern amenities and the added benefit Look what’s included: Robin describes lifeguarding as being like a shepherd surf lifesaving clubs. With the  Return flights from Gatwick. A supplement of friendly English speaking locals.Visit this charming island and see may be payable if travelling from the following watching over his charges, moving them into safer beaches getting busier, we all need the for yourself by taking advantage of our low winter prices at the airports: Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, territory. ‘Lifeguarding’s all about anticipating dangers help of more people like Drustan and This box Bristol, Glasgow, Newcastle, Norwich, Exeter, superb 4# Canifor Hotel. Book early to avoid disappointment. before they happen so it makes sense for us to be Robin – young men and women who of leash Cardiff, Edinburgh, East Midlands and Leeds stationed at our own local beach because we know it so are passionate and knowledgeable about strings, Bradford. well – we know the . both the joys and dangers of the sea. featuring  rd 2 weeks on Half Board with a 3 week Robin, is part of Canifor Hotel #### FREE on Bed & Breakfast at the popular Board skills 4# Canifor Hotel in Qawra. the RNLI's new The Canifor is a very pleasant 4-star hotel offering a high level of service. It is situated Robin’s unit, Chapel Porth in St Agnes, North Cornwall, (See our Coastal life feature on page 34 for help with  Comfortable air-conditioned/heated rooms all campaign aimed just a few minutes from the attractive Qawra promenade, and is within easy access of have a balcony, en suite bathroom, direct dial doesn’t have an inshore rescue boat or rescue watercraft understanding tides, waves and currents and keeping at surfers in the bus routes and close to the shops, restaurants and bars of Bugibba. Guest facilities telephone and radio. as they can call on the D class at St Agnes lifeboat safe at the beach. A new book, The Surfing tribe: A history south west of include an attractive reception foyer, a restaurant and bar lounge, both overlooking  No supplement for a single travellers station, so the rescue board is key. Lifeguard rescue of surfing in Britain will be reviewed in our next issue) England the pool. There is also an indoor heated pool as well as a coffee shop. 01/11/09 - 30/04/10. Photo: Kirstin Prisk Kirstin Photo:  All UK and Malta security fees, airport and Upgrade to All-Inclusive from just £12pp daily to include: passenger taxes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks; Local alcoholic and soft drinks, tea and coffee.  Service of an experienced Mercury Direct CANIFOR HOTEL SUMMER LATE BARGAINS Representative in Malta.  Return airport transfers in Resort. Half Board 1 week 10 nights 2 weeks 06/07/09-15/07/09 from £439 £519 £599  FREE Malta phrase book. 16/07/09-31/08/09 from £469 £549 £629  Full ATOL protection of your holiday. All-Inclusive 1 week 10 nights 2 weeks PLUS 06/07/09-15/07/09 from £515 £629 £755 Upgrade your FREE 3rd week to 16/07/09-31/08/09 from £545 £659 £785 Half Board from just £7pppn.

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RNLI RNLI-HJY.indd 1 18/5/09 16:57:40 RNLI RNLI-HJY.indd 2 18/5/09 16:58:15 12 NEWS NEWS 13 Photo: Jon Stokes Jon Photo:

Enduring success jump and Pratt/Click David Photo: Foresters The Flora London Marathon on 26 April was a great success, and the RNLI hopes 135 Challenge to raise over £350,000 from the event. The Foresters society celebrates Thirteen lifeboat crew members its 135th year in 2009, and has ran for the RNLI, from Tower, Girvan, chosen to support the RNLI, Chiswick, Skegness, Bembridge, setting a fundraising target of Gravesend, Buckie, Southwold, £135,000. Foresters provides Llandudno, Aberdovey and Sennen Cove financial products like insurance stations. They were joined by more than George policies and savings plans while 200 other runners, including RNLI staff, trying to make a difference in its Silver Medals and sterling support the Chief Executive’s daughter, Lucy, and members’ communities. Foresters even a descendent of the most famous jumps at 97! Membership Manager Jeannie lifeboatman, Henry Blogg. The RNLI held its Annual Presentation of Supporter of the Year for his help with Payne says: ‘Our members come Email [email protected] if you’d Awards in London’s Barbican on 14 May, in-memoriam giving. The new Supplier A 97-year-old man from Bournemouth is good and I’d recommend it to anyone! together in community-based like to run in London next year for the with HRH The Duke of Kent as guest of Award was presented to Microsoft, while believed to have become the UK’s oldest ’He is just one of the RNLI’s many daredevil groups, in much the same way as RNLI or to get skydiver after jumping out of a plane at supporters. Upcoming adrenalin-packed honour in his 40th year as the charity’s the Northern Ireland Tourist Board won the Phillips Tim Photo: RNLI lifeboat stations do, and so we involved in one President. Group Award. The Oddfellows’ long history 3,000m for the RNLI. events include bungee jumping in Sunderland, are encouraging them to join in with of the world’s The Duke presented Lifeguards Chris of support for the RNLI led to their picking George Moyse jumped, in a tandem dive abseiling in Anglesey and rallying from local RNLI events as well as raising other major Boundy and John Dugard from Trebarwith up the Lifetime Achievement Award, while with an instructor, on 4 April. His grandson Wexford to Mongolia! Visit rnli.org.uk/events money and donating.’ marathons. Strand in Cornwall with Silver Medals for Trotters Family Bakers from Seahouses was Edward also completed a skydive on the day, to find out more or see RNLI Compass. Happisburgh's Atlantic 75 lifeboat There are RNLI Gallantry. Chris and John saved the life of an named Corporate Supporter of the Year. in aid of the Royal Air Association. If George’s adventure has inspired you to Friendly Forester II, funded by places in Berlin, angler on 28 June last year after he slipped Earlsdon primary school from Coventry George, who has since turned 98, said on do something a little more sedate, you can Foresters in 1995. Chicago, New Photo: Nicholas Leach into the water in an area known locally as was the winner in the Youth Under 13 touching down: ‘I enjoyed that! It felt really sponsor him at justgiving.com/georgemoyse. York and the washing machine. A full account of the category, while Victoria Redman from Kent Tokyo – just rescue was published in the Autumn 2008 won the 13–18s Award. Iain Webster from remember issue of the Lifeboat. Network Media won the Media Relations to pack your Dedicated RNLI supporters were also Award for his TV series on Portrush lifeboat trainers! THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME honoured at the ceremony. Funeral Director station, while Dunbar RNLI shop was named Robert Holland was named Individual best of the year in Retail. FCB2 is the RNLI’s experimental lifeboat, The new hull performs well in all which is being developed to replace the conditions. It gives good aft-deck space to Mersey class. As we reported last year, the make towing and working with helicopters hull proved inadequate in rough weather. A easier. The Supacat launch and recovery Luke’s book new hull shape has now been chosen, and the equipment will need some modification to Lifeboat Luke and his colourful RNLI hopes the first production FCB2 will be accommodate the new hull. friends have been entertaining Weathering the storm children around Ireland with their on station in 4 years. The charity’s engineers must now optimise After model testing on a range of specially the hull shape to make absolutely sure of the daily adventures on RTÉ’s Den tots. As the recession continues, your support for harder than ever. The Institution is not in designed and pre-existing hull shapes best possible performance. The prototype Now the group, who keep the seas the RNLI is more important than ever. crisis, and we should not talk ourselves into (pictured), including at the facilities of FCB2 is due to be ready for sea trials in 2011, safe around the magical town of Six out of ten lifeboat launches are only one, but we all have a role to play in making QinetiQ, it was clear that the best option with the first operational lifeboat of its class Donaghadoo, are the stars of a book possible thanks to legacy gifts. While we it clear we are not a wealthy charity.’ was the one produced by the RNLI’s own on station in 2013. and DVD, available from RNLI shops expect the number of gifts to increase over Because of the economic downturn, some in-house naval architects. around the UK and RoI as well as the coming years, the value of these legacies projects are to be delayed, including flood major retailers such as Tesco and is now likely to fall, reflecting the fall in value defence work at the RNLI Headquarters Waterstones. The fun and games of property, shares and investments, as well depot site. The Chairman continued: ‘The are interspersed with valuable as lower interest rates on savings. Business Planning team is considering safety messages. Find out more at The RNLI’s own investments, like those of a number of other contingencies, while lifeboatluke.tv.

other charities, performed poorly in 2008, ensuring we continue to deliver the priority Williams Photo: RNLI/Nathan

Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard Photo: RNLI/Nigel and the charity ended the year with free projects that will help save more lives at sea.’ reserves at their lowest level for 13 years. Training and equipping crew members At the RNLI’s Annual General Meeting on and lifeguards remains the RNLI’s top 14 May, Chairman Admiral The Lord Boyce spending priority and, with your support, said: ‘If we are to weather this storm well, it’s the charity will carry on saving lives certainly not the time for knee-jerk reactions whatever the weather and regardless of the but it is the time for every one of us to work economic climate. 14 NEWS NEWS 15 SOS tally THREE SPECIAL STATION BIRTHDAYS The total raised on this year's SOS day, LEAN MACHINES Three lifeboat crews are celebrating proud planning a new lifeboat station for The Lizard, the RNLI’s biggest fundraising day, is over The new Atlantic lifeboat workshop at manufacturing, from 52 craft in 2007 to RNLI histories this year, as Fowey, Fleetwood to accommodate a Tamar class lifeboat. £490,000 and the money is still coming the RNLI's Inshore Lifeboat Centre in just 20 by the end of 2010. The time taken and The Lizard stations turn 150. All three stations, established in 1859, in. Congratulations and thank you if you East Cowes, Isle of Wight, was officially to refit a D class lifeboat has been cut One remarkable rescue for Fowey came will receive anniversary Vellums from the organised or supported an SOS event. opened by RNLI President The Duke of from 9–10 weeks to just 2 weeks, without 'With courage, in 1865, with 13 people saved from the RNLI’s Trustees. Next year’s SOS day is 29 January – Kent on 16 April. The workshop will see compromising quality or safety, thanks to barque Dryden and 9 from the brigantine see rnli.org.uk/sos for ideas. the building and refits of the charity’s the new more efficient working methods. nothing is impossible' Wearmouth during a hurricane. In recent Atlantic 85 rigid inflatable lifeboats, As well as precious time, these processes Thank you for your excellent response to years, one of the crew’s most celebrated and the refits of their predecessors, the stand to save the RNLI £2.6M initially, and our request for your help in selecting the shouts was the rescue of the MV Galina Atlantic 75s like that pictured below right. another £160,000 a year in refit costs. words to include on the RNLI memorial in 2005. The workshop was finished last October, The space and time saved has also led to sculpture. Many of you favoured one of the Fleetwood lifeboat station is no stranger under budget, and is now in use. A new the Inshore Lifeboat Centre’s boatbuilders five published quotations, though we also to wild weather either – in 1977 the D class ‘lean manufacturing’ approach means now being licensed to produce the Arancia received a good selection of new material. boathouse was washed away in a gale. that there is now a single production line inshore rescue boats (IRB) used in surf by The firm favourite and winner was ‘With The people of Fleetwood have been facing for new construction and refit, which has RNLI lifeguards. A prototype built in East courage, nothing is impossible’, the motto these conditions gamely for 150 years now. cut refit times from 18 weeks to 12. This Cowes performed just as well if not better of Sir William Hillary, founder of the RNLI. Captain Edward Wasey was awarded three means that fewer relief boats are needed than the real thing, made in New Zealand. This perfectly captures the brave, selfless Silver Medals for Gallantry in 1 year. and nine can be sold. All future RNLI IRBs will now be built by the determination that makes ordinary people The Lizard lifeboat was involved in the Former UK Prime Minister Splish splash The D class relief fleet is also being RNLI, making a saving of 50% on the cost extraordinary volunteers; reflecting the RNLI’s biggest ever single rescue, when Margaret Thatcher chats to reduced dramatically thanks to lean of importing these inflatables. very heart of our unique charity and the 456 people were saved from the White Star Fowey lifeboat crew in 1990 Duck! Because we hope these cute purpose of this new sculpture. We hope liner Suevic in 1907. Today, the RNLI is Photo: Harry and Billie Graeme Photo: RNLI/Colin Watson quackers will be flying off the counters you agree. at Barclays until 3 August. Alongside the quotation and the names On sale in aid of the RNLI at branches of the RNLI volunteers who lost their Appeal updates of the bank around the UK, each duck has lives will be a poem by Nick Jenkins. The its own personality, designed to appeal memorial will be completed in time for the After 3 years of fundraising, Angle’s new Tamar Meanwhile, the appeal for improving to as wide an audience as possible. RNLI Headquarters open days at Poole on class lifeboat Mark Mason is now on service at Hoylake lifeboat station, Wirral, has now Choose Racing Duck, Dotty Duck, 5–6 September. the Pembrokeshire station. raised £1.1M. This milestone is halfway to Starstruck Duck or RNLI Lifeboats Duck, Congratulations to Tim Stevens The fundraising was begun at grassroots the £2M target, but there’s still work to do, or collect all four. They cost £2 each or (Redruth, Cornwall), Janet Boyes (Hamilton, level, with the launch of the Tamar4Angle as Fundraising Manager Audrey Farr explains: three for £5. Scotland) and Jacqueline Griffiths (Morden, appeal locally and in Birmingham. A £1.6M ‘The appeal has already helped fund the new Surrey) who all receive a copy of The donation from the Mark Master Masons Hoylake lifeboat station and the crew are lifeboat story by Edward Wake-Walker. completed the funding, and the £2.7M lifeboat enjoying the benefits of their wonderful new Snap it up Their names were drawn first from the arrived on station on 17 March. home. Now, we are focusing on raising money If you’re a regular reader of the Lifeboat, many entries supporting the chosen Angle Lifeboat Operations Manager for a new all-weather lifeboat.’ you will know that the RNLI has a quotation. John Allen-Mirehouse says: ‘We are extremely Hoylake’s Mersey class lifeboat Lady of stunning collection of photographs, Our next issue will feature the making proud to be the second lifeboat station in Hilbre is due to be replaced with an FCB2, the packed with drama, romance and and unveiling of the sculpture, as well as Wales to take delivery of this fantastic class of next generation of carriage-launched lifeboat. humanity. A selection of images is now the stories behind it. boat, and seeing her arrive (pictured) was quite See page 13 for more on FCB2. available to buy in various sizes and a moment for everyone.’ formats from rnli-photostore.co.uk. From all-action shots to sunset harbour scenes, if you’ve got space on your wall or a gift to buy, you’re sure to find something of RWCs on station interest, and all profits will help save Following trials of an RNLI lifeguard B class lifeboats was often a challenge, lives at sea. rescue watercraft (RWC), it has been so an RWC will be used in support. decided that such a craft should be Meanwhile, in Bude, Devon, the operational at two lifeboat stations. lifeboat station is to use the local

Enniskillen in County Fermanagh was lifeguards’ RWC in support of their Cavaney Photo: Martin STOP PRESS the RNLI’s first inland lifeboat station, D class during the Winter months. As the Lifeboat went to print, we heard established in 2001. With over 1,000 Both stations will benefit from their that Chief Executive Andrew Freemantle’s miles of shoreline, more than 120 RWC's performance in shallow, rocky successor when he retires in September islands and large areas of uncharted areas, with less need for crew members will be Paul Boissier. shallows, using just the station’s twin to go into the water themselves. 16 NEWS

issues MAKE EVERY for just when3 you subscribe to your£1 favourite MOMENT COUNT boating magazine* If you like having serious fun on the water, the RNLI has a magazine, safety pack and DVD especially for you

Sailing, powerboating, windsurfing, angling, the RNLI has launched an awareness and response to your feedback, developing your diving, kitesurfing, canoeing, riding your fundraising campaign, kindly sponsored favourite sections and introducing new personal watercraft ... Whatever your by Helly Hansen, called Serious fun!. The ones. Our main feature for Summer 2009 passion, you live for getting out on the promotional DVD of the same name is is on personal watercraft, the Spotlight is water – it’s what weekends and holidays packed full of exciting and informative on inland waterways, and we hear from are made for! video footage, featuring interviews with Professor Mike Tipton – what he says might Highlights of your day might be dropping top exponents of each watersport. It has save your life! To find out more, contact *Paying*Paying by Direct Debit only. Offer closes 31st August 2009. already proved popular at major events and Supporter Care at RNLI Headquarters (see anchor in a secluded bay to enjoy the sunset, _ Subscribe online: being the first out at dawn, catching a gust is available free to all on request from RNLI page 1 for details). www.ybw.com/ib11 and feeling like you’re flying, paddling out Headquarters (see page 1 for contact details) ¥ Call our order hotline: 0845 123 1231 and catching the perfect wave, or opening or by going to rnli.org.uk/seriousfun. Quote code: MB11 Lines open 7 days a week, 8am-9pm UK time. Please have your payment details ready when you call. the throttle and feeling that unbeatable For boating and watersports readers sense of exhilaration. Those of you who use the water and are But, as the Lifeboat reports every quarter, already regular the sea can also provide far less enjoyable Lifeboat mag ad.indd 1 13/05/2009 15:16 supporters experiences. No matter how prepared or might like experienced you are, a moment is all it to upgrade takes for something to go wrong. A change to receive in the weather, a rip current, collision or Supported by: Offshore equipment failure – suddenly a great day rnli.org.uk/seasafetymagazine on the water can be turned on its head. alongside the Dangerous myths Lifeboat. Sea safety: the complete guide Over half of the RNLI’s 8,000 or so lifeboat This The second edition of this renowned RNLI launches every year are to leisurecraft and 16-page booklet and interactive CD-ROM is now watersports enthusiasts. Despite this, two supplement out. You can order the complete guide free commonly held assumptions remain: ‘It’ll gives a from Sea Safety at RNLI Headquarters (see never happen to me’ and ‘The RNLI will more page 1 for contact details) or by visiting rnli. always be there to help’. These have resulted technical and practical org.uk/seasafety. Why not ask for several to in only a tiny proportion of such sea users view of life on the water from the unique distribute at your club or marina? actively supporting perspective of the RNLI. You’ll find expert Enjoy your time afloat CHOICE OF SIZES INCLUDING 18, 25, 40 AND 50 STONE MODELS AND CHAIRS AVAILABLE ANY WIDTH, ANY DEPTH, ANY SEAT HEIGHT UY the charity, other advice from the Institution’s lifeboat and don’t become B

B H than occasionally crew members and lifeguards, sea safety one of the RNLI’s S SPECIAL OFFER R I T I dropping some specialists and trainers, alongside readers’ rescue statistics AVAILABLE TO loose change in a own accounts of incidents and lessons ALL READERS OF – but be assured LIFEBOAT collection box. learned. the RNLI will be This situation Readers who are already familiar there for you

Packed with practical advice from the RNLI on having fun and staying safe for a range of watersports A d of SAINSBURY’S n ch a a Sponsored by el is clearly with Offshore will have something of a thanks to its ri Ir ty f r o eg lic ist ub *On all our Grosvenor and Devon ranges and may be of the same value or less than your chosen item. Free item er p gift vouchers with your e ed R in he En n t gl 8 i and 67 must be ordered at the same time. **For new purchases only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other an Y 2 d W CH al ber GREAT BRITISH MOBILITY e s (2 num unsustainable so surprise this issue. We’ve redesigned it in 0 loyal supporter. 9603) harity Great British Mobility Group voucher. £150 worth of vouchers per order. Vouchers will be sent within 28 days of and Scotl 37736). C and (SCO delivery of your order. No cash alternative. purchase 18 CLOSE UP CLOSE UP 19 BIG SICK,LITTLE SICK The lifeboat volunteer, a teacher himself, wasn’t happy: ‘Nothing makes me more cross than giving up my time and having to suffer bad teaching. Now we’re to be guinea pigs for some new first aid training …’

In 2007, John Gilmour discovered that dry land. The of equipment that crew this course was different: ‘It was the most can carry is limited and they work far from interesting and knowledge-enriching course specialist support. I have ever undertaken.’ Now hundreds of his Paul decided on a radical change. fellows have completed the new training and Instead of a traditional syllabus, based on all will have been trained by mid-2011. diagnosis, he devised one based on what a From 2002 to 2006, RNLI lifeboats crew member sees and therefore knows – a launched to around 3,000 services with a symptom-based approach. medical component, from illness to injury, to Theory and practice exposure and . Over 3,300 people The new course is 75% practical. Swanage were directly treated by RNLI volunteers but volunteer John enthuses: ‘We’re being asked in 85% of cases these volunteers were not to decide if someone is “big sick” or “little medical professionals. How could they be sick”. It’s simple: “big sick” equals going to confident that they were making the correct die soon of no or no circulation while diagnosis and giving correct treatment? “little sick” equals not going to die – just yet! A unique approach And then we do whatever we can to prevent When Paul Savage joined the RNLI in 2005 things from getting worse.’ as Sea Survival and First Aid Trainer, he knew The new course caters for all learning it would be difficult to cater for the disparate styles. John adds: ‘I suspect that’s why we abilities of over 4,000 crew members and got so much from it. None of us got bored lifeguards. However, as a former volunteer – we were enjoying ourselves and learning crew member himself, a former paramedic quickly.’ At the core of the course are a set and a chartered physiotherapist, Paul was of acronyms and a pack of waterproof well placed to review the RNLI’s approach check cards (below). to first aid. He consulted with experts in pre-

hospital care, other search and rescue (SAR) 08 Oct Issue First - TRG-136-01 organisations and the military to find what was current best practice. Then, by studying TRG-136-01 - First Issue Oct 08

the RNLI’s medical service data, he 136-01 - First Issue Oct 08 Oct Issue First - 136-01

was able to identify and TRG- prioritise the subject matter essential for lifeboat crews. Their unique environment rarely allows a safe and stable platform on which to give treatment. This necessitates difficult Pages 18–21: practical classroom learning transfers of rescuers and culminates in full scenario assessments Photos: RNLI/Laura Wiltshire and Paul Savage casualties between boats or to 20 CLOSE UP CLOSE UP 21

Employing flow charts rather than heavy Kilrush inshore lifeboat crew tried the Approval and accreditation Ambulance Service have had the opportunity blankets. The course has also adopted a first What’s next? text, the cards cover aspects of injury, illness approach on 13 August 2008 in their rescue Following a second pilot in early 2008, to review it. aid reference book produced by the BPA, After a recent station medical exercise, and immersion, and even triage for when of an injured yachtsman. They recorded the members of the RNLI’s Medical and Survival Recognition has also come from the UK Emergency Care and Safety Institute and John Gilmour remarked: ‘It's all come casualties outnumber first aiders. Trainees notes shown below left. Sub-Committee, the body responsible for the SAR Operators Medical Group. The RNLI College of Paramedics with an RNLI-specific flooding back. Now all I need to do is stop learn to determine whether the casualty Yves Borrel, also onboard the yacht, charity’s clinical governance, undertook the qualification meets Level 3 competence, chapter. it all flooding out again!’ To keep skill fade requires rapid evacuation for professional later wrote: ‘Our friend was transferred to course themselves. Specialists in resuscitation, above first responder and below medical Costs of training are high but savings on to a minimum the RNLI is looking at medical assistance (big sick) or is less critical a specialised hospital in Caen. He suffered orthopaedics, cardiology, cold-water shock technician and paramedic. resources have been enormous. Equipment standardising medical exercises. and can be transferred by lifeboat with first a double fracture of the skull leading to and more, they gave their final approval and Dr Mark Forrest, Medical Director at is now standard across all operational areas, Whitstable station has held an annual aid support onboard (little sick). They rapidly some deafness in his left ear and … his accreditation, allowing the RNLI to produce a ATACC, says: ‘You should be congratulated for saving on storage and opening doors to first aid competition since 1977 and gain confidence that their decisions rehabilitation will take course to its own requirements and maintain leading the way … many other emergency bulk discounts. And by accrediting its own Lifeboat Medical Adviser Dr Terry Stefani are correct. between 6–12 months. We its own quality assurance. organisations will attempt to follow.’ qualification, the RNLI saves on external says: ‘You don’t need many props to create sincerely thank you and To gain the new RNLI First Aid for Lifeboat certification and training materials. difficult scenarios! The course has turned Adapting and developing your colleagues for your Crews qualification, which is valid for 3 years, conventional treatment on its head and Boom secure; mechanism of injury was The RNLI’s next task was to adapt the course Difficult odds Danger? intervention and effective crew must carry out over 30 DR(C)ABCDE the new kit is first class. It’s enabling crews D: to suit the needs of RNLI lifeguards – and all Qualified first aiders give casualties a better care of our wounded friend.’ assessments, answer two multiple-choice to be so much more in tune with ambulance blunt blow to head AVPU = Pain; casualty sleeping 750+ lifeguards have just been trained in three chance of survival but it may still be slim. Even ashore the papers and demonstrate competence in crews too.’ R: assess response: 2-week blocks. Trainer Rob Smith had just finished a training comes easily into practical scenarios. The course also provides Crews and lifeguards can also look and initially unresponsive; when shaken and spoken They followed essentially the lifeboat session with Aldeburgh crew when they came play as Exmouth Crew a qualification accredited by the UK Maritime forward to downloading information, quizzes to loudly he opened his eye slightly and muttered course but swapped treatment of seasickness across a road traffic accident. They gave first Member David Preece and Coastguard Agency (MCA). and self-assessment modules from the (C): no life-threatening bleed to control for stings. An extra 4 hours covered the aid including cardiopulmonary resuscitation recounts: ‘My first aid Lifeboat crews are trained either at their College’s distance learning website. automatic external defibrillator, spinal (CPR) to a seriously injured woman. They A: casualty maintaining his own airway was put into practice station, in eight 2½-hour sessions via a team management, dressing of minor injuries and later heard that she had died, but the CPR had A proud tradition B: rate 48; changed to 60 as monitoring after an elderly lady fell of Mobile Training Unit (MTU) trainers, or at dealing with observers. Returning lifeguards ensured that her organs could be donated. The care of survivors after rescue has been continued; oxygen administered at 15 litres per minute and hurt her back and the Lifeboat College as part of a 4½-day will receive an annual refresher before the Alan Pattinson feels he was ‘really, really a priority for the RNLI since at least 1864 through a free-flow mask face. I was straight into Sea Survival course (sponsored by Lloyd’s season starts. lucky’ last year: ‘I collapsed in a beach car when The Life-boat reported that the DR(C)ABCDE as I had Register Educational Trust). C: Central capillary refill instant; changed to 2–3 To complete the specialist training, a park with people that were astute enough Institution issued its stations with a new my check cards in my The British Paramedic Association (BPA), seconds while monitoring; no bleeding from ears or course for the RNLI Flood Rescue team has also to know that I wasn’t sunbathing, I was ill.’ code of rules in accordance with pocket – result! When the Paramedic Science Degree course at lacerations to head but bleeding from nose been run at the College. Lifeguard Jonny Hanley reflects: ‘Only 2 Dr Marshall Hall’s system of ‘restoring and handing her over to the University of Hertfordshire, and the D: double-check response: AVPU = Unresponsive; Modernised equipment items include weeks before, I was on my induction with treating persons apparently drowned’. Now, the ambulance, the Anaesthesia, Trauma and Critical Care (ATACC) casualty did not respond to voice, touch, tickling of haemorrhage dressings, tourniquets, a the Penwith lifeguards and we were working once again, the RNLI has revolutionised the crew thought the group have all approved the course and all 15 the eye lashes or pinching the earlobe; later became disposable bag valve mask and suction, triage on the same sort of scenarios. Alan’s here practice and teaching of first aid in the cards were great.’ UK Ambulance Trusts and the RoI’s National responsive when light shone in eye to determine left eye labels, shoulder bags and more effective today thanks to the training and equipment.’ charity – and beyond. pupil response; still very confused and disorientated E: Examine, enquire: A: no known allergies M: no known medications P: no known past medical history L: last meal taken at approximately 5pm E: casualty was on the yacht deck and the boom swung and struck the casualty over the left eye; the casualty had vomited four or five times prior to the lifeboat arriving and the last discharge contained blood. Big sick Evaluate: by helicopter on spine board and Evacuate:  basket stretcher. RESCUE 23

Goodyear

INTO DANGER 13% better rolling resistance* WADING The next time you need a tyre, In the early hours of the morning, a man clung on for dear life, shivering in the near-freezing, choose Goodyear EfficientGrip. fast-flowing river. Would rescuers be able to reach him in time? Rory Stamp reports It was 10 January 2009 and a man was seen centre of the river, where it was less deep and The tyre that: jumping from Waterloo bridge in Inverness into powerful. But they still faced a tricky journey * the churning river below. The Police alerted before they could reach the man: the river bed • Saves fuel the Coastguard, the Kessock lifeboat was was made up of large, round, slippery rocks. It requested to launch, and Lifeboat Operations was a slow and exhausting process. Manager Gary Friedman paged the volunteers By the time the two rescuers reached • Saves money at 2.23am. Knowing that the casualty was in the casualty, he’d been in the water for 30 fast-flowing water, he also asked lifeboatmen minutes. As they approached, Donnie and Stan • Helps contribute Donnie and Stan MacRae to take the station’s shouted to the man. Although he lifted his 4x4. ‘They’re part of the RNLI’s Flood Rescue head in response, he was clearly close to losing to a better team’ explains Gary, ‘trained to carry out consciousness – and his grip. The lifeboatmen rescues in swift water using special equipment.’ both took a firm hold of him and made for the environment (A typical training scenario is pictured above.) shore, keeping his head and shoulders clear of When the volunteers arrived on scene, the water. they found that the man had managed to grab Suddenly, though, they lost their footing hold of a railway bridge buttress someway and all three were submerged and swept downstream. He was in great danger of being towards the weir. But the safety lines did their swept on again and obviously needed urgent job, holding them back from going any further, help, but it looked unlikely that the Atlantic and somehow they had managed to keep hold lifeboat would be able to approach him safely of the casualty. They swam through the deep – the water was shallow and the bridge was water beneath the weir, towing the man only 1m away from a weir. Donnie and Stan with them. decided the only way to reach him was indeed Two policemen helped the pair carry the to put their swift-water training to use and man over boulders and to the nearby road, enter the water themselves. where an ambulance was waiting. By now, At the river’s edge, the two lifeboatmen the casualty was clearly suffering from severe Kessock's Donnie and Stan in their swift-water rescue kit. The RNLI's secured themselves to safety lines that were hypothermia. While the lifeboat volunteers Flood Rescue team is kindly supported tended by a Coastguard Rescue team, before returned to station, the man was taken to by Goodyear. See opposite for their RNLI members can receive wading into the river. ‘We had to approach the Raigmore hospital for treatment – where he supporter offer. casualty from upstream because the water was eventually made a full recovery. Photo: RNLI/Dan Holland moving past us so quickly,’ recalls Donnie. ‘Our In Letters of Appreciation to the MacRaes, a 5% discount online. aim was to come through the quicker-flowing RNLI Chief Executive Andrew Freemantle Just enter the code ‘RNLI09’ at www.hiqonline.co.uk water into the shallows behind him, grab him wrote: ‘You both demonstrated excellent and get back to shore.’ professional skill, teamwork and good TestedTested by Chest high in water, the pair battled decision-making to save this man’s life. the 4–6-knot flow and headed towards the Well done indeed!’ Goodyear supporting the * Compared to the average performance of 4 leading competitor tyres in the segment. Tested by TÜV SÜD Automotive in March 2009; Tyre Size: 205/55R16; RNLI Flood Rescue Team Test Car: VW Golf; Report #76236753.

034174 GD_RNLI Magazine.indd 1 01/06/2009 15:17 24 RESCUE RESCUE 25

THE DETAIL THE LIFEBOAT: B class Atlantic 85, B-827 Olive Laura Deare II On station at Gravesend 9 December 2008 Funded by the legacy of resident Olive Laura Deare, whose support was inspired by the operation of fishing boats from the town by her great grandparents. The original Olive Laura Deare now serves as a relief E class lifeboat for Chiswick and Tower lifeboat stations. THE CREW: Full-time duty Helmsman Graham Tassell (52) Full-time Helmsman Dave Greenfield (42) Volunteer Crew Member Roy King (50, Firefighter) THE STATION: Gravesend covers the 26 miles from the western end of Canvey Island to the Thames flood barrier at Woolwich. In a rare arrangement for the RNLI, 10 staff and 40 volunteers work shifts at the station to ensure full-time cover without the need for pagers. The requirement on the Thames to reach 95% of reported casualtys locations within 15 minutes of notification, makes such a system a necessity at Gravesend, Chiswick and Tower. In 2008, Gravesend lifeboat launched 93 times, rescued 67 people and saved 5 lives.

Left: Deceptive calm at Gravesend Photo: RNLI/Andy Wallace MUDDY WATERS Right, top (l–r): Crew members Dave, Graham and Roy How would the occupants of a yacht survive when it sank Photo: RNLI/Jason Carroll Right, middle and bottom: within seconds at the mouth of the Thames? The sunken yacht is recovered Anne Millman finds out Photos: RNLI/Dave Greenfield

On the overcast but cold morning of Lightning launch bag,’ Graham recalls. ‘She was panicking and soon discovered to be severely hypothermic. Graham explains: ‘We couldn’t get the Ian Dunkley, Gravesend Station Manager 17 February, Thames Coastguard at Walton- Gravesend lifeboat station sits on the south struggling inside it and we saw her go under After 10 minutes’ immersion, their body lifeboat to them so Dave went over the and Sea Safety Officer, comments: ‘This on-the-Naze heard an incomplete mayday. side of the Thames in the tidal reaches at least twice.’ As she clutched a had already dropped by a side, with a safety line attached, to coax dramatic rescue clearly demonstrates just At the same time, London Coastguard at opposite Tilbury fort and power station and aid and teddy bear, Dave and Roy pulled her life-threatening 5°C. them towards us, making sure there was how quickly a disaster can occur when you Woolwich received a 999 call from a power therefore was well placed to assist. The RNLI’s over the side of the lifeboat and wrapped her Fortunately the Port Health patrol vessel solid ground for them to walk across.’ Safely least expect it. Only the skipper was wearing station worker who had seen two men Graham Tassell, Dave Greenfield and Roy King in a blanket. Lady Aileen was nearby so the pair were onboard the lifeboat at last, one of the men a lifejacket and, as this had manual inflation, clambering ashore. Were the two incidents were already kitted transferred to the shelter of her cabin started shaking violently. it hadn’t inflated automatically – nor was it related? It took about 7 minutes to clarify – up for an exercise ‘The girl was panicking and en route to the Royal Terrace pier where a Ambulances took all four casualties to fitted with crotch straps.’ they were one and the same. when the call fast-response paramedic awaited them. Darenth Valley hospital in Dartford. Despite And what of the worker on the shore The mayday was from the yacht Muddy came through from their shocking ordeal, they recovered well and struggling inside her sleeping bag Solid ground? who had had the presence of mind to dial 999 Waters. On passage in a moderate breeze London Coastguard. they were released 6 hours later. This freed the lifeboat crew to attend to on his mobile and to ask for the Coastguard? from west of Whitstable, Kent, to London, They launched their the other two men. They had made their Litres per second ‘If the call had gone to the Police (as is she had hit an underwater object, ripping a Atlantic 85 within and we saw her go under twice.’ way to the edge of the tideline and were The extent of the damage to the yacht often the case in the Thames area if the hole in her hull. Her 45-year-old owner had 30 seconds and were understandably reluctant to return to deeper became clear when a Port of London Authority informant doesn’t know about the Coastguard) only seconds to radio before he, his 15-year- on scene in less than 2 minutes. Her father was standing chest-deep water. But as the tide started to rise, they salvage vessel lifted her ashore. A 2m gash had the subsequent delay would almost have old daughter and two 19-year-old men were Muddy Waters' crew were in immediate in the water but was unresponsive when were sinking into the mud – it was imperative allowed in an estimated 500 litres of water per certainly resulted in the death of at least plunged into icy waters. danger. ‘The girl was still in her sleeping dragged aboard. He and his daughter were that their rescuers acted quickly. second, triggering an almost instant sinking. two of the casualties.' 26 RESCUE RESCUE 27

The lifeguards had been watching the kayakers for found the man confused and apparently suffering from a while. It was raining on Pembrokeshire’s Newport shock and hypothermia. He refused to let go of the Sands, and the only beach goers to keep an eye on kayak and get on the rescue board. How could Tom were ‘hardcore’ dog walkers. Two men in single kayaks help him? Having spent almost half an hour in the and two children, young girls in a double kayak, were water, making tough decisions in rough conditions, he paddling in the Nevern Estuary, about 60m from the was relieved to hear the arrival of the Cardigan inshore shore. But an offshore wind was blowing force 6–8. lifeboat Tanni Grey, with Dan Rogers at the helm. John Pangbourne was the Senior RNLI Lifeguard on Life first duty on 5 July 2008. Also on patrol that day was Tom An exhausted Tom was hauled onboard the lifeboat Purnell. It was Tom’s first season as an RNLI lifeguard, first. He already knew the crew from RNLI training and his first day on duty at Newport Sands. A local exercises and was quick to update them on the lad, Tom’s first week had been spent at nearby Poppit casualties. With Fishguard’s Trent class all-weather Sands, where he had already been a member of the lifeboat Blue Peter VII also on the way, they judged that volunteer surf lifesaving club for years. the bigger boat could pick up the drifting man, while Tom says: ‘We were keeping an eye on the kayakers the smaller and more manoeuvrable B class made best and they looked like they were trying to get back speed towards the three people shivering but safe on to shore. They were struggling and that’s when we the inhospitable rocks of Pen-Y-Bal. realised they needed our help.’ John called Milford The smaller boat she may have been, but the rigid Haven Coastguard, saying that further help may be inflatableTanni Grey’s draught was still a little too deep to needed, while Tom, aged just 17 at the time, grabbed a pull up right next to the first girl. The rocks and shallows rescue board and entered the water. meant Tom had to go back in the water, fetch her and Decisions paddle her back to the lifeboat on his trusty board. Dan The group was now drifting and the sea state, Tom recounts: ‘We transferred them both to Fishguard’s remembers, was ‘pretty choppy’, with a 1½m swell. lifeboat so they could warm up indoors. The other He had paddled on his stomach almost halfway to the casualties were waiting in a cove but, because of the group when the double kayak capsized, dumping the submerged rocks, I decided Crew Member Jonny Jones two young girls in the water. One of the men got out should go into the water attached to a line. He brought of his kayak to try to help. them to safety one-by-one.’ When Tom reached them, all four were starting to Meanwhile Blue Peter VII had successfully picked up . Prioritising quickly, Tom helped one child onto the other man and his craft and the Cardigan lifeboat the rescue board and, telling the men and the other recovered the three other kayaks after their former girl to stay calm as he would be back, paddled 100m occupants had been taken care of. Fishguard crew, to the headland of Pen-Y-Bal. Meanwhile, the man who under Coxswain Andy Lucas, treated and monitored had abandoned his craft was clinging to the upturned all five for the effects of hypothermia, before handing double kayak but drifting quickly out to sea. them over to the Ambulance service. Leaving the cold and distressed young girl on the Despite being cold and frightened the kayakers rocky headland as he went to rescue her friends was, had sustained no serious injuries. Indeed, their lives for Tom, one of the most difficult parts of this rescue. had been saved by the teamwork, professionalism, He explains: ‘I was worried about the girl. It was quick thinking and local knowledge of the lifeguards always in the back of my mind that she was on her and lifeboat crews involved. Or, in the words of RNLI own and couldn’t see anyone. I had to explain to her Chairman Admiral The Lord Boyce in a letter to Tom, not to climb down, and she didn’t have a on …’ their ‘dogged tenacity, initiative and skill’. A sea mist had started to descend, reducing visibility, Tom is now back on patrol in RNLI kit, having spent as Tom took off to help the other girl and the man who the Winter in Canada training to be a ski instructor. He

Photo: RNLI / Nigel Millard / Nigel RNLI Photo: had remained in his kayak. Helping the girl into the starts university in the Autumn, studying for a degree abandoned single kayak, he asked the pair to paddle to in product design. Bangor’s prospectus boasts that TOUGH CHOICES Pen-Y-Bal. He watched to make sure they were making the course prepares one for ‘a career where you can progress before turning his attention to the second man, make a difference’. On the beaches of Pembrokeshire, With four kayakers drifting out into a rough Irish Sea, who was drifting further from the relative safety of the Tom, with the help of his neighbouring lifeboat crews, estuary minute by minute. already has. (Find out more about lifeguarding skills on a young RNLI lifeguard had an exhausting first day, as Now over 1,500m from the lifeguard unit, Tom pages 6 and 34.) Mairéad Dwane recounts 28 RESCUE RESCUE 29 Floating fireball When a catamaran began pouring out smoke and flames, the lives of two sailors and their parrot were at stake

It was clear, with a light south-westerly breeze and ears were just ringing – and the heat from the fire was low tide when Powerboat Instructor Jono Garton (28) intense,’ says Jono. Amazingly, all escaped unharmed. looked out over Pwllheli marina on 29 August 2008. To Learning that there were flares and another gas his horror, a column of smoke was pouring from a vessel bottle onboard, Jono made best speed to the lifeboat moored in the distance. An RNLI helmsman too, he station where first aid could be given by one of the shore knew there was no time to lose and hot footed it to helpers, a first responder. The two volunteers now put the lifeboat station a few doors down. their minds to ensuring those in and around the marina Full-time Mechanic John Jones had already begun would be safe from the boat’s continuing explosions. to contact the Coastguard, Fire and Ambulance services. They advised the marina manager to clear the area and Next on the scene was Boatbuilder and Crew Member evacuation began immediately. Jason Warren (32). ‘It’s lucky that Jason and I work so The flames were subsiding as a fire tender and crew close,’ says Jono. ‘We were already kitting up as the arrived so Jono agreed to take a fireman out with a hose. pagers went off.’ The combination of hose water and the rising tide soon Deciding it could prove too risky to wait for a third extinguished the fire. ‘By the time we left her, there was crew member, Jono and Jason set off immediately in nothing much left – just the metalwork – and the tide D class lifeboat Leslie and Peter Downes. Jono reveals: soon covered that,’ recalls Jono. As for the lifeboat, she ‘It did go through my mind: what if people are stuck was filthy with mud and soot. onboard? We’re on a rubber boat and in rubber suits David was airlifted to facing a fire. There might be nothing we can do …’ Bangor hospital while Karen, Two minutes later, the pair reached the scene. The suffering from the effects of marina’s safety boat had also launched to help but was smoke inhalation, was driven. unable to reach the blazing craft in such shallow waters. The station Tractor Driver and ‘No other boat could have done the job – only the his wife took Charlie home with inshore lifeboat could get close enough to offer the help them until he could be reunited needed,’ explains Jono. with his owners. After some ‘The 8m catamaran was pretty much up in flames,’ weeks in Liverpool’s burns unit he continues. ‘It was good to see that owners David and and several months at home, Karen had managed to jump overboard but they’d then David says: got stuck in the mud and were desperately trying to ‘Our beloved boat went scramble away from the boat without much luck. They up like a bomb after I'd gone were both very distressed and David clearly had severe up like a Christmas pudding. He [Jono] showed great burns to his face and arms.’ bravery and risk to his own life coming so close. There Jason lost no time bringing David onboard. He was another gas bottle and 28 gallons of petrol onboard, then entered the water himself and held the lifeboat which could have exploded at any time ... On shore Readers of in position leaving Jono free to climb out, pick up they doused me with gallons of cold water, which was Offshore, the Karen and lift her in. But there was another life to save essential but not appreciated at the time … supplement for

too: a much-loved pet parrot named Charlie. Despite ‘Once home I had daily visits from the district nurses supporters who Butler Greg Photos: everything, the couple had managed to place his cage in and my face healed completely but my arms and legs actively use the the catamaran’s dinghy, now lying on the mud next to are scarred and still weak. I won’t be back to work for sea, can find out the burning craft. Jono grabbed the cage. a while. Thankfully Karen is working again, and Charlie more about how It was then that a exploded on the suffered no more than some scorched tail feathers. this incident catamaran, showering debris over the lifeboat and the ‘We all give to the RNLI but there’s not a collecting arose and surrounding area. ‘We couldn’t hear ourselves think – our tin big enough to show our gratitude.’ lessons learned. H868 CFC919H 265x210:Layout 1 12/5/09 13:48 Page 1

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The Solent – a The telescope – Beachcomber photographic portrait a short history cottage by Terry Heathcote and Fred Barter by Richard Dunn By Monty Halls Review by Carol Waterkeyn Review by Peter Bradley Review by Rory Stamp For someone If you are a mariner, or Beachcomber Cottage brought up on the have a passing interest was by no means the first edge of the Solent, in astronomy or the TV series to follow a city this photographic history of scientific dweller’s experiences as journey took instruments, this book they sampled rural life. me back to should delight. But the 2009 on-screen my childhood Richard Dunn adventures of Monty and taught me investigates what life Halls and his gigantic dog something new. was like before the Reuben in the wild west The late Terry Heathcote, who provided many telescope and how the coast of Scotland had a of the photographs in this book, lived in and philosophical and religious arguments of the unique appeal. With Monty as our honest and photographed the Solent area for 25 years. Fred day were changed forever when people started likeable guide, it offered a window into the Barter kept his boat there for several years and looking at the magnified skies. dream of many: that of going back to basics in has spent much time exploring both sea and The book points to the use of lenses by the a beautiful landscape. land. Both gentlemen have discovered places Greeks and the later use of glass as a magnifier. This BBC book serves both as an excellent I didn’t even know existed. Galileo is assumed by many to be the inventor accompaniment to the show and as a This book is a celebration in pictures and but we learn he was largely responsible for fascinating travel account in its own right. words of the diversity and beauty of the area, bringing the telescope to the attention of the There are insights here that never made the incorporating historical buildings, modern-day rich and famous. final cut of the programme, such as Monty’s industry and the enjoyment to be had exploring As the technology of lens manufacture background, his relationship with the locals, this stretch of water. From the picturesque improved, so did the discovery and his emotional peaks and troughs. Thanks to fringes of the New Forest, to the beaches of understanding of planetary motion and stellar his undoubted talent for writing, the sounds, the Isle of Wight and on to fishing in Selsey Bill observation, opening up new theories and smells and sights of life in Applecross permeate and windsurfing in West Wittering, this should questions. The impact on culture and the arts the pages. Be warned, though – it may just appeal to all those who love to be on or near is also explored. The author gives an insight make you want to up sticks and move into a the water. If you look carefully you can also find into how developments in science, and a better bothy next to the sea. a couple of lifeboats and a lifeboat station as a understanding of human existence, were all Paperback book bonus! possible because of this versatile instrument. Published by BBC books This book could make a very fine TV ISBN 9781846076213 Hardback book documentary – if so, I strongly recommend Price: £11.99 Published by Adlard Coles Nautical that you read this printed version first! See page 46 for an interview with Monty Halls. ISBN 9781408103784 Price: £19.99 Hardback book Reader offer: the Lifeboat readers can purchase Published by the the book at the special price of £15.99 (plus National Maritime Museum free p&p in the UK) by calling 01256 302699 ISBN 9781906367046 and quoting code 2EQ. Price: £12.99

How to order: Unless other details are stated, all products reviewed in the Lifeboat are available from good bookshops and online from Amazon via the RNLI website at rnli.org.uk/amazon. (Amazon will donate a minimum of 5% of the value of all such orders to the RNLI but you must access Amazon via the RNLI website and not go direct.) 34 COASTAL LIFE COASTAL LIFE 35 Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard RNLI/Nigel Photo:

Reading the sea Spring tides Earth

From surfers to fishermen to lifeboat coxswains, people who rely Moon's gravity on the sea need to be expert at understanding what it’s doing. But how well do you know your tides, waves and currents? Moon Sun's gravity

The sea is changing all the time. Whether As the Moon travels around the Earth, ebb. Slack water is the period of time at some of the highest tides in the world, you and online. Some tables present the whole it’s a storm whipping it into a frenzy or tides its gravity pulls the sea towards it. The Sun either high or low tide when the water is need only look as far as the Bristol Channel, year’s data in GMT only, so it is important to SUN sweeping in and out, the sea is never the has a similar but smaller effect as, although changing from flood to ebb and is briefly with a tidal range of up to 15m. check for this and adjust accordingly. same from one day to the next. it is far larger than the Moon, its much still. When the gravitational pulls of the Although gravity is the dominant force It is sometimes difficult to appreciate greater distance from the Earth weakens its Sun and Moon are aligned they combine on tides, it doesn’t act alone. The weather that millions of tonnes of water are on the Neap tides Tides influence overall. Their combined influence to create tides with higher highs and lower also has an impact, especially air pressure. move as the tide changes. The sheer weight Tides are caused by gravity. Gravity is a force is what gives us our tides – normally two lows, known as spring tides, or springs. Low pressure means that there is less of water can create strong tidal currents, Earth Moon of attraction between any two objects. It’s highs and two lows each day. However, the (This is around new and full Moon.) And resistance to the gravitational pull and gives moving at up to 7 or 8 knots. This is as fast stronger the closer the objects are and the Moon orbits the Earth once in slightly more when they are at right angles the tidal range us even higher high tides. In contrast, high as many boats can travel, leaving them Moon's bigger the objects. So the enormous mass of than 24 hours so the tide times slip later is smaller, creating neap tides or neaps. pressure reduces the difference between entirely at the mercy of the tide. Away from gravity the Earth and the fact that we stand directly each day. Complicating the matter further (Around quarter Moons.) high and low tides. the shore, it is easy to be swept up in a tidal on it literally keeps us grounded. However, is local geography, such as the shape of The highest high tides of the year occur Despite their complexity, tide times are stream, where few swimmers would have gravity exists between all objects in the the coastline or the sea’s depth, which can a day or two after the full or new Moon predictable. Checking a tide table will help us the strength to beat the incredible force of Sun's gravity universe, creating a ‘tug-of-war’. The Moon create complex tidal systems, such as round nearest to the Spring and Autumn equinoxes. make informed decisions, whether it’s when the sea. Areas with dangerous tidal currents and the Sun also have a gravitational pull on the Isle of Wight. Tide heights also vary from year to year, to bring a craft into harbour or have a picnic close to shore are sometimes signposted the Earth. We don’t notice their effect on us, As the tide comes up it is known as a with 1997 being the most recent year of on the beach. Tide tables can be found on with warnings and you should always check but they do affect the sea. flood tide and as it goes down again as an exceptional high tides. And to experience public display or for sale at coastal locations with any lifeguards. SUN not to scale 36 COASTAL LIFE COASTAL LIFE 37

Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard RNLI/Nigel Photo: NEAPS AND SPRINGS Waves So how did these tides get their names? Waves are formed by the wind blowing over Neap also means low, so refers to the the surface of the sea, just like the ripples small tidal range. It is less sure where the word spring comes from. Some formed when you blow on a cup of tea. As think it may refer to a Scandinavian term the winds increase and travel unrestricted meaning ‘leap up’. Others that it refers to across miles of open water, the waves grow. a natural spring, where the water wells Far from shore, with no land to break them up from the Earth. up, they travel hundreds or even thousands of miles and can build to enormous heights. Such formations of large, long, stable waves Rip currents get up high. Look along the beach. If there is are known as swell. Wind over tide, when The constant movement of the sea throws a patch of clear water with breaking waves on the tide is moving one way and the wind the up many strange and surprising phenomena, either side, then this may be a rip. You may other, can add to the effect as the conflicting some of which can prove very costly if also see a muddy patch, where the current forces push waves higher and higher. stumbled upon unknowingly. And for a has stirred up the seabed. It may look calm The experience of being out in a large beach user, none poses more risk to the and inviting but you should avoid it. swell is one not quickly forgotten. The top unwary than the rip current. So knowing If you do find yourself in a rip, being may be well above your head allowing you how to spot and avoid one can be a lifesaver. taken away from the shore, follow a few just brief glimpses of the surrounding area as When a wave crashes onto the shore it simple instructions. Firstly, don’t panic. the boat climbs before sinking into the next dumps large amounts of water high on the Although you are being pulled out you trough. Smooth-topped swells are often beach that will then flow back to the sea. won’t get pulled under the water. Don’t try referred to as rolling seas. But if the waves being pushed up behind it to swim straight back to shore as you will In high winds or closer to the shore, come too strongly and quickly, or if there quickly get exhausted and then be at risk. however, waves may break, creating a foamy are physical barriers such as sandbars or Instead, swim across the rip, parallel to the top. This can reduce visibility drastically, groynes, the excess water cannot escape. shore, until you stop being pulled out to sea. making it much harder for lifeboat crews Instead it will flow parallel to the beach Once you are out of the rip you can start to to spot a casualty. The RNLI’s all-weather until it finds a faster route back out to sea, swim back to shore to safety. lifeboats are designed to ride large swells creating a rip current. Lifeguards will be looking out for rips at speed without damaging craft, crew or A powerful rip current will be far too and shepherding swimmers away from such casualties. (See page 13 for news of the strong to swim against, even for experienced areas – always take their advice. latest experimental work.) The latest models swimmers. But, fortunately, they are (If you actively use the sea, see page even have unique shock-absorbing seats and quite easy to avoid or escape with a little 16 for news of the RNLI's membership they are all inherently self righting in case knowledge. You can sometimes see a rip for people like you. Read more about of capsize. current from the shore, especially if you can lifeguarding skills on pages 6 and 26.) As swell approaches the shore, the sea becomes shallower than the waves themselves, forcing them to rise up and collapse dramatically. There is a real beauty and majesty to waves crashing onto the shore. But this splendour masks quite incredible power. It is very easy to be knocked off your feet and then be pulled into the sea by the retreating water. This can be especially dangerous on a pebble or shingle beach, which will be scoured out from under your feet.

TIDAL RANGE The UK Hydrographic Office measures the height of a tide in metres above the Lowest Astronomical Tide. Tidal range is the difference between the heights of low and high tides. But beware! Even a small tidal range can mean a surprisingly rapid movement of water in and out if the beach is nearly flat.

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LIFEBOAT AND HOVERCRAFT LAUNCHES JANUARY–MARCH 2009 MINEHEAD PORT ISAAC SOUTHWOLD THURSO VALENTIA 685 B-824:Jan3 D-546:Jan10 B-783:Feb17,21,Mar14 B-750:Jan4,8,Mar2 ON-1273(17-42): ON-1218(17-07):Feb3 MOELFRE PORT ST MARY ST AGNES STAITHES AND Feb15(x2) WALMER ABERDEEN BARRA ISLAND CHISWICK EASTBOURNE HARTLEPOOL KINSALE D-665:Jan6 ON-1213(14-15):Feb14 D-660:Jan29,Feb15 RUNSWICK TIGHNABRUAICH D-663:Mar21 ON-1248(17-24): ON-1230(17-12):Feb13 E-003:Jan11,14(x2),15,19, ON-1195(12-36): ON-1274(14-37):Jan23,25 B-796:Mar30,31 D-689:Mar18 ON-1234(14-26):Mar18,26 ST BEES B-788:Jan13,Mar15 B-743:Jan25,30,Feb28 WALTON AND FRINTON Jan11,Mar7,21 BARROW 20,25,29,Feb2(x2),15(x2), Feb20,24,Mar6,7 B-714:Jan25,Feb5, KIPPFORD MONTROSE D-575:Feb14 B-719:Feb15,24 STORNOWAY TOBERMORY ON-1154(47-036): D-694:Jan19,Mar3,21 D-567:Jan13,Feb22 21,24,28(x2),Mar16,29(x2) D-605:Jan24,Feb24, Mar24(x3),29 D-553:Feb22 ON-1152(47-034):Jan3 PORT TALBOT ST CATHERINE ON-1238(17-18):Mar26,27 ON-1270(17-39):Jan25, Jan2,Feb28 ABERDOVEY BARRY DOCK E-006:Jan4,8(x2),13,24, Mar6,17 HARWICH KIRKCUDBRIGHT D-626:Jan3 D-550:Feb20,Mar3,15 B-772:Feb27 ON-1260(17-31): Feb23 WELLS B-758:Mar24 ON-1210(14-12):Mar22 Feb9,10(x2),12,14, EXMOUTH ON-1201(17-02): B-718:Jan18 MORECAMBE D-713:Mar31 ST HELIER Jan17,18,21 TORBAY ON-1161(12-003):Mar10 ABERSOCH ON-1245(14-29): Mar2,7,9(x2),12,18,19,26,28 ON-1192(12-33): Jan2,Feb28,Mar13 B-814:Mar22,24 D-564:Feb28 PORTAFERRY B-816:Jan3,13 STRANRAER ON-1255(17-28):Jan2,10, WEST MERSEA B-790:Mar10 Jan10,Feb4 CLACTON-ON-SEA Jan14,29,31,Feb8,Mar1 B-736:Mar8,22,24 KYLE OF LOCHALSH H-002:Jan13 B-706:Mar28 ST IVES D-697:Jan10,16,28,29, 25,Feb4,Mar19,29(x2) B-761:Jan29,Feb1 ABERYSTWYTH BEAUMARIS B-704:Jan4,Feb7 D-669:Jan1,10,14(x2),15, B-789:Feb27,28(x2), B-740:Feb17 H-006:Feb6,28 PORTHCAWL ON-1167(12-009):Mar10 Mar21 D-651:Jan25,30,Feb4,19, B-773:Feb10,Mar28 B-822:Jan15,28,Feb19, B-768:Jan13, B-744:Mar14 29,31(x2),Mar1,14,15 Mar3,13 LARGS MUDEFORD B-723:Mar22 D-668:Mar7,10 STROMNESS Mar19,22 WESTON-SUPER-MARE Mar29 Feb7,11,12,17,26(x2),Mar7 D-559:Jan1,Feb12 HASTINGS B-739:Jan25,Mar1,28,29 B-806:Jan24,Feb13,27 B-726:Jan16,25,30,Feb18 ST MARY’S ON-1236(17-16): TOWER D-696:Mar11 AITH BEMBRIDGE CLEETHORPES ON-1209(14-11):Jan23, ON-1162(12-004): LERWICK NEW BRIGHTON PORTHDINLLAEN ON-1229(17-11):Jan18 Jan16,Mar1 E-001: WEXFORD ON-1232(17-14):Feb16 ON-1124(12-001):Feb21 D-618:Jan14,29 Feb 9,21,Mar14 Feb27,Mar12,16 ON-1221(17-10):Jan23, B-721:Jan17,Feb8 ON-1120(47-015): ST PETER PORT SUNDERLAND Jan14,18,27(x2),28(x2), D-644:Jan3,4,10,13,18,28, ALDEBURGH BERWICK-UPON-TWEED D-645:Mar1 FALMOUTH D-699:Jan 20,Feb27, Feb25,28 H-005:Mar23 Mar11,17 ON-1203(17-04):Jan9, B-817:Jan5,9,23,25,30, Feb1,5,8,12(x2),13,14 Feb5 ON-1193(12-34):Mar10 ON-1191(12-32):Mar6,14 CLOGHER HEAD ON-1256(17-29):Jan24, Mar22 LITTLE AND NEW QUAY PORTPATRICK Mar1,5,11,16,20,25,31(x2) Feb4,5(x2) E-002:Jan1,13,14(x3), WEYMOUTH D-635:Jan21 D-639:Mar6,14 ON-1190(12-31):Feb21 Feb3,14,20,Mar30 HAYLING ISLAND BROAD HAVEN (CARDIGANSHIRE) ON-1130(47-022): SALCOMBE B-825:Feb22,Mar1,3,22 Feb27(x2),28(x3),Mar11, ON-1263(17-34):Feb18,28 D-673:Feb15 BLACKPOOL CONWY B-756:Jan10,11,14,20,21, B-712:Jan4,Feb7,10,11 D-628:Mar23 ON-1187(12-28):Feb11,12 Jan10,Feb28 ON-1289(16-09):Jan11, D-608:Jan30,Feb22, 12,13,15(x2),20,21,22,25, ON-1279(17-46):Jan27, ALDERNEY B-748:Feb8 D-627:Feb22,Mar8,11 24,31,Feb1,5,11,19,22, B-829:Feb24,28, LITTLEHAMPTON D-616:Jan2,Feb11,Mar18 PORTREE Feb27,Mar20 Mar1,22 26,28,30,31 Feb11,14 ON-1199(14-04):Jan10 D-558:Jan30,Mar7 COURTMACSHERRY Mar4,28 Mar22,29(x2) B-779:Jan28,Mar1,27 NEWBIGGIN ON-1253(14-32): B-794:Jan30, D-695:Mar29 E-004:Jan1(x2),9,19,20(x2), B-746:Jan7,19,Feb11,14,28 AMBLE D-566:Jan30,Feb8 HARBOUR FENIT D-642:Jan17,Mar29 D-603:Mar6(x2),27 B-745:Feb 22 Jan6,18,23 Feb8,27,Mar15 SWANAGE Feb16,17,18,20(x2),21,22, WHITBY ON-1176(12-19):Jan27, BORTH ON-1205(14-07):Feb13 ON-1228(14-24):Jan9 HELENSBURGH D-631:Jan29 NEWCASTLE PORTRUSH SCARBOROUGH ON-1182(12-23): 23,Mar4(x3),8(x3),9(x2), D-674:Feb19,Mar2 Feb19,Mar12,18 D-622:Feb21,22,Mar29 COURTOWN ON-1239(14-27):Mar22 B-791:Jan20,Feb1,11,27, LITTLESTONE-ON-SEA ON-1148(12-11): ON-1257(17-30): ON-1175(12-18):Mar8 Jan4(x2),21,Mar15 18(x2) WHITSTABLE ANGLE BRIDLINGTON D-548:Jan5,6,24,Mar19 D-561:Mar18 Mar8,19,23 B-785:Jan11,25,Mar1 Jan25,Feb17 Jan2,11,12,Feb28,Mar22 D-560:Feb20,Mar8 D-613:Jan4,21 TRAMORE B-762:Jan11 ON-1112(47-010): D-557:Jan13 COWES FILEY HELVICK HEAD LLANDUDNO D-637:Jan25,Mar23,29 D-572:Feb28,Mar17 SEAHOUSES TEDDINGTON D-643:Jan22 B-764:Feb22,Mar1,8,20 Jan16,Feb22(x2),24,Mar22 BRIGHTON B-801:Feb19, ON-1170(12-13): B-760:Jan5,Mar14 D-656:Jan27,Mar10,12 NEWHAVEN PORTSMOUTH ON-1173(12-16):Feb3 D-576:Jan10,14,16,25 TREARDDUR BAY WICK D-638:Jan16,Feb14,22 B-737:Jan13,14,25, Mar17,21,22(x2) Jan13,Mar1 HOLYHEAD LOCH NESS ON-1243(17-21): B-730:Jan2,24,Mar26 D-686:Mar13 D-648:Feb16,23, D-614:Jan12 ON-1224(14-20):Mar12 APPLEDORE Mar1,13(x2),14,15,19(x3) B-802:Jan10 D-570:Feb14 ON-1272(17-41):Feb10 B-707:Mar4 Jan9,19,Feb1,14,Mar14 D-554:Feb20,21,Mar8,17 SELSEY Mar14(x2),15 TROON WICKLOW B-742:Jan31, BROUGHTY FERRY B-810:Jan20,Feb23 FISHGUARD D-654:Feb10 LOCHINVER ON-1254(17-27):Mar15 PWLLHELI ON-1146(47-031): D-685:Jan16,Feb9 ON-1225(14-21):Feb8,23, ON-1153(47-035):Jan24 Feb19,Mar1,7,19 ON-1252(14-31):Jan31 CRICCIETH ON-1198(14-03):Jan26,28 HORTON AND ON-1271(17-40): NEWQUAY (CORNWALL) ON-1168(12-010):Mar 29 Feb24,Mar25 TEIGNMOUTH Mar2,13,17,20,21 D-671:Feb17,Mar15 BB-060:Mar14 D-698:Jan24,30,31, B-823:Mar24 D-652:Jan4,26,Feb18 PORT EYNON Feb15,24,Mar9,12 B-821:Jan11,29,Mar1,17 D-676:Mar28,29 SENNEN COVE B-815:Jan17,Mar12,15 ON-1275(14-38):Jan11 WITHERNSEA ARAN ISLANDS Feb20,Mar11 CROSSHAVEN FLAMBOROUGH D-688:Feb22,Mar9,15 LONGHOPE D-636:Jan25,29,Mar1 QUEENSFERRY ON-1121(47-016):Mar21 TENBY D-684:Feb8,23, D-701:Mar5,13 ON-1217(17-06): BUCKIE B-782:Jan11,13,14 B-820:Mar1,14,19 HOWTH ON-1284(16-05):Mar10 NORTH BERWICK B-735:Jan8,11,13,16(x2), D-624:Mar21 ON-1281(16-02):Jan25 Mar2,13,17,21 WORKINGTON Feb15,Mar14,25,29,30 ON-1268(17-37):Mar19 CULLERCOATS FLEETWOOD ON-1258(14-33):Jan3 LOOE D-619:Feb21 22,Feb12,14(x2),15,18,24, SHEERNESS D-562:Feb14,Mar31 TYNEMOUTH ON-1141(47-028): ON-1262(17-33):Jan9,14 ON-1278(17-45):Mar10 B-807:Feb24, ON-1156(47-038): D-659:Feb5,15(x2),Mar7 B-793:Jan9 OBAN Mar1,11,14,20,28,29,30,31 ON-1204(14-06):Jan4 THE LIZARD ON-1242(17-20):Jan23, Jan2,9,30,Feb25 ARBROATH BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH Mar1,2,17,27 Jan2,Feb8 HOYLAKE LOUGH DERG ON-1227(14-23): RAMSGATE ON-1211(14-13):Feb22, ON-1114(47-011):Mar18 28(x2),30,Feb22,Mar28 D-629:Jan26,Feb15 ON-1194(12-35): B-733:Feb26,28,Mar1,7,21 B-811:Jan22 D-556:Jan2,22,Feb8, ON-1163(12-005): B-705:Feb21,Mar4 Jan3,21,Feb1,4,5, ON-1197(14-02): Mar4,15 THE MUMBLES ON-1269(17-38):Jan6 YARMOUTH Feb7,8,10,20 D-630:Jan17 DART Mar29 Jan15,17 LOUGH SWILLY Mar17,21,24,28(x2) Feb19,21,28 D-662:Jan9,24,Feb22,25, ON-1127(47-019): BB-050:Feb21 ON-1249(17-25):Mar27 D-621:Feb7,8,10 D-672:Feb26,28,Mar1,21 D-702:Feb21,25 FLINT HUMBER ON-1117(47-014):Mar22 ON PASSAGE RED BAY 26,Mar5,15,29(x2) Feb2,Mar29 D-675:Jan1 YOUGHAL ARKLOW BURNHAM-ON-SEA DONAGHADEE D-658:Feb8,Mar1(x6),24 ON-1216(17-05):Feb5,6 ON-1142(47-029):Jan13 ON-1210(14-12):Feb11 B-728:Jan2,12,21,Feb21, SHERINGHAM D-705:Feb14(x2),15,22 D-693:Jan30,Feb17,22, B-780:Jan18,Feb24,Mar22 ON-1223(14-19):Jan27,28 B-795:Mar8 ON-1267(14-36):Mar22 FOWEY ON-1269(17-38):Jan21 B-819:Mar22 ON-1269(17-38):Jan27 Mar1 B-818:Mar10 Mar17 ARRANMORE D-664:Mar1,17 DOUGLAS ON-1222(14-18): HUNSTANTON LOWESTOFT PADSTOW REDCAR SHOREHAM HARBOUR ON-1237(17-17): BURRY PORT ON-1147(47-032): Feb13,Mar1 H-007:Mar11,30 ON-1138(47-025): ON-1283(16-04):Jan26 B-777:Jan25, ON-1158(47-040): Jan3,24,Feb1,16 D-611:Jan1,Feb13,Mar18 Feb12,22 D-681:Feb13,18,Mar1,7 B-749:Mar8 Jan8,16,Mar1,5 PEEL Mar15(x2),22,24(x2),29 Jan14,Feb11 ON STATION BALLYCOTTON CALSHOT DOVER FRASERBURGH ILFRACOMBE LYME REGIS ON-1181(12-22):Feb14 D-677:Mar29 D-647:Feb27,Mar8,12 D-709, Elsie Ida Meade, Cardigan, 28 January 2009 ON-1233(14-25): ON-1155(47-037):Jan19, ON-1220(17-09):Jan29, ON-1259(14-34):Feb9 ON-1165(12-007):Jan31 B-741:Jan3,4,Feb6,12 PENARTH D-695:Mar15(x2),22 SILLOTH (D-547, Society of Societies, has been withdrawn) Feb3,15,Mar8 Feb28,Mar5,12,22 Feb3,15,21,Mar6,7 GALWAY D-555:Feb22,24,Mar1 LYMINGTON B-725:Feb14 RHYL B-828:Jan24 H-007, Samburgh, relief fleet, 30 January 2009 BALLYGLASS D-609:Jan19,Feb19,28, DUN LAOGHAIRE B-738:Jan8,15 INVERGORDON B-784:Mar3,4 D-692:Feb22 ON-1183(12-24): SKEGNESS D-701, Henley Eight, Withernsea, 12 February 2009 ON-1235(17-15): Mar5 ON-1200(14-05): GIRVAN ON-1206(14-08):Mar5 LYTHAM ST ANNES PENLEE Jan4,Mar14 ON-1166(12-008):Feb18 (D-541, Brian and Margaret Wiggins, has been withdrawn) Jan2,Mar13 CAMPBELTOWN Jan11,17,Feb22 ON-1196(12-37):Mar 29 ISLAY D-657:Jan5,11 ON-1265(17-36):Jan29, D-632:Feb20,Mar14 D-538:Mar3 B-830, Douglas Murray, relief fleet, 19 February 2009 D-687:Mar13,24 ON-1241(17-19):Jan17 D-565:Feb3,22,Mar12 GRAVESEND ON-1219(17-08): MACDUFF Feb13,28,Mar30 D-665:Jan4,16,31 SOUTH BROADS B-829, Derrick Battle, Hayling Island, 26 February 2009 Betty Battle BALTIMORE D-571:Mar24 DUNBAR B-827:Jan3,9,15(x2),24,26, Jan2,Mar28 B-804:Jan1 B-787:Feb13,Mar29 ROCK D-514:Mar16,30 (B-712, , has been withdrawn) D-713, Nigel Martin Spender, Port Talbot, 17 March 2009 ON-1137(47-024):Mar18 CARDIGAN ON-1266(14-35):Feb21 Feb3,10(x3),17,Mar2,5, KESSOCK MALLAIG PETERHEAD D-634:Jan17,19 XP-42:Mar9,30 (D-550, Gwenllian The Rotary Club of Port Talbot, has been withdrawn) B-708:Feb6 B-752:Jan2,Feb9,12, DUNGENESS 14(x2),15,16,17,20,22 B-771:Jan10,Feb7,9,Mar4 ON-1250(17-26):Jan1, ON-1280(16-01):Feb17 ROSSLARE HARBOUR SOUTHEND-ON-SEA ON-1291 (16-11), Mark Mason, Angle, 17 March 2009 BANGOR GREAT YARMOUTH KILKEEL POOLE ON-1276(17-43): B-776:Feb22,26,Mar4,14 Mar20,21,22,24 ON-1186(12-27): Feb21,25 (ON-1114 (47-011), The Lady Rank, has been withdrawn) B-805: D-547: AND GORLESTON B-812: MARGATE ON-1131(47-023):Jan21, Jan2,3,4,10,Feb15,16 D-633:Feb22,Mar13,16 Jan26,Feb24(x2), Jan2 Jan26,Feb23 Jan10,17,Mar18(x2) B-831, Joy Morris MBE, St Bees, 7 April 2009 Feb27,Mar8,15(x2) RYE HARBOUR D-682:Mar5 Mar17,19,22(x2) D-709:Feb9,12 DUNMORE EAST ON-1208(14-10):Jan5, KILMORE QUAY ON-1177(12-20):Mar17 (B-719, Percy Henry Patmore MBE MM, has been withdrawn) BARMOUTH ON-1215(14-17):Feb25 Feb17,Mar21,23 ON-1133(47-021):Feb21 ON-1184(12-25):Jan14 B-826:Jan11,12,31(x2), B-722:Jan2 H-004:Mar1,5 B-710, Friendly Forester II, Happisburgh, 9 April 2009 D-678:Feb11,24 B-786:Jan1,14,Feb22, KINGHORN D-706:Feb14,Mar15,31 Feb12,27,28(x2),Mar8,10 (relief lifeboat placed on service for evaluation trials) Mar2,22,23 B-720:Mar20,21,29 B-755:Jan20,28, Feb8,13,22,Mar3(x2)

ON-####(12-##) ON-####(14-##) ON-####(16-##) ON-####(17-##) ON-####(47-###) B-### D-### E-### H-### Mersey class Trent class Tamar class Severn class Tyne class B class D class E class Inshore rescue hovercraft last built: 1993 last built: 2003 introduced 2006 last built: 2004 last built: 1990 Atlantic 21, 75 or 85 new cost: £31,000 last built: 2002 new cost: £175,000 refit cost: £190,000 refit cost: £220,000 new cost: £2.7M refit cost: £255,000 refit cost: £200,000 new cost: £160,000 refit cost: £70,000 Shields-Lifeboat-V2 5/5/09 2:11 PM Page 1 Summer 09 RNLI lifeboat PGs:RLNI Lifeboat 1/6/09 12:41 Page 1

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PLYMOUTH. Quality B&B accommodation with CAPE WINELANDS. Escape Northern winter. SPAIN - NERJA - UNSPOILT COSTA DEL and fridge, tv, dvd en-suite rooms or own bathroom. On coastal footpath Spend month or more in historic farm SOL. Pretty 1 bedroom and spacious and radio. and 4 miles from city centre. Run by ex lifeboat setting. Variety newly renovated self 2 bedroom apartment. Close to pools, crew member. For details ring 01752/492232 catering accommodation. Close proximity beach and typical Spanish town. Ideal for familes for airport, golf, sea and fine restaurants, Tel 01483 576747 West Country Email: [email protected] www.nerjavillas.org.uk nice fun week/weekend. Price on application. FOWEY - The Old Lifeboat Station. Waterfront apartment. Stunning Views. Town centre, For more information but quiet. Sleeps 2. (02392) 632807 for brochure.        www.oldlifeboatstation.co.uk and availability please   call Paul 07973 668712     Cumbria                  For all advertising within Lifeboat please contact UK Holidays Sharon Davies at Landmark Publishing Services Scotland East of England EIGHT THE MEWS - GOSPORT. 3 bed town BUXTON ground floor apartment, near town house, sleeps 5. Town centre position close centre. Sleeps 4. Lounge, kitchen/diner, t: 020 7692 9292 e: [email protected] to ferry gives easy access to historic double bedroom, twin bedroom, bathroom MORSTON (BLAKENEY) NORFOLK. Choice of two Portsmouth. www.eightthemews.co.uk with separate shower. Wheelchair access. 4* cottages overlooking quay & marshes & nature [email protected] Available daily or weekly. Tel. 01298 212304 reserve. Great location. Sleeps 4 & 5. 07836 330233 07771 990425 www.lyndhurst-buxton.net Days Out Isle of Wight Book a Warner Leisure Hotels break Save up to £13 off walk up admission prices* Wales and Save up to 25%* With exciting rides and animals, action packed shows and its Great Food Leisure Activities Entertainment very own SEA LIFE Centre, Chessington is a whole As an RNLI supporter you receive a World of Adventures… all in one place! special 50% discount on lineage advertising. Accommodation Relaxation Experiences By advertising within Lifeboat you will be Call 0870 220 4000 to book this fantastic reaching over a quarter of a million offer and many more fellow supporters. when visiting the UKʼs To book call our friendly Privilege Holiday Club Team on 0800 1 388 399 top attractions… quoting code HD480 For more information please contact www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/phc * Offer valid until 2nd November 2009, excluding Zoo Days. Tickets must be booked at least 24 Sharon Davies at hours in advance of visit date. All prices are dependent on the date of visit. Prices and opening * Terms and conditions apply as stated in the current Warner Leisure Hotels 2009 brochure. Offers are subject to availability and apply to new bookings only. Exclusions & supplements apply, please ask at time of dates are subject to change without prior notice, please check when making your booking. Offer booking. Bourne Leisure Limited (trading as Warner Leisure Hotels) is a company registered in England and Wales LANDMARK Publishing Services can not be used in conjunction with any other promotion and is subject to availability. Proof of with company no.01854900 whose registered office is 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Herts HP2 4YL. RNLI membership may be requested.

To advertise on these pages please contact Sharon Davies at Landmark Publishing Services To advertise on these pages please contact Sharon Davies at Landmark Publishing Services 2 Windmill Street London W1T 2HX t: 020 7692 9292 f: 020 7692 9393 e: [email protected] 2 Windmill Street London W1T 2HX t: 020 7692 9292 f: 020 7692 9393 e: [email protected] 46 VOICES VOICES 47

time. ‘It’s a fishing community, and they degree, captured underwater film of a look on the lifeboat crews as their guardian rare species of , and led a diving angels,’ explains Monty. ‘For me, as someone expedition that discovered the ruins of a who has dived for more than 20 years, sunken city off the coast of south-east India. MONTY’S I have nothing but admiration for the RNLI’s Hailed as a new star of British exploration, volunteers. But there’s a particularly special Monty went on to present a range of natural RNLI memory for me too, because a lifeboat history television programmes and became a crew scattered the ashes of my best respected diving journalist. MARINE LIFE friend, Jason.’ ‘It’s hard to explain why I love the ocean so much,’ Monty ponders. ‘I suppose I was Diver, journalist and DIY convert Monty Halls tells Service to the sea exposed to the sea from a very young age – Monty first met Major Jason Ward during I was brought up in Padstow, Cornwall, so Rory Stamp why he chose the simple life – and the Royal Marines Commando training my first experiences were getting that whiff why he will always be grateful to the RNLI programme, and they formed a strong of and being walked along the beach. friendship. But, in March 2003, Jason became Then we moved to Malta for 3 years, because one of the first casualties of the Iraq war my dad was in the RAF, so I was often playing When I step into Monty’s small Bristol to build a roof.” It’s amazing what you when he was killed in a helicopter crash in in the water. I also idolised , office, I’m confronted with a toothy grin can achieve.’ Kuwait. His grieving family asked Salcombe who was on the TV when I was young! I just and powerful outstretched paw. It’s not Monty’s have-a-go attitude endeared lifeboat crew to take his ashes out to sea; to love the fact that there’s always something the man himself, but his dog Reuben: the him to the locals, who freely offered their make the waters off south Devon – where different to see – weather, currents, marine loyal companion who, in 2008, helped advice and help as he struggled with the Jason spent some of his happiest times – his life. It’s endlessly interesting.’ Monty through life as a Scottish crofter. technicalities of catching lobsters, growing final resting place. It won’t be long before Monty will be ‘He’s missing the big open spaces,’ says vegetables and raising farm animals. ‘And ‘The lifeboat crew all lined up and waking to the sound of lapping waves again. Monty, giving the giant black hound that was my second lesson: they taught stood to attention during the ceremony,’ In the Winter he’ll return to Applecross to an affectionate pat. The former Royal me what community is all about,’ says remembers Monty. ‘It was really, really film a second series of Beachcomber Cottage. Marine’s expeditions have taken him to Monty. ‘Thanks to them, I did achieve my special – a sign of respect from an ‘The idea is to get more involved in the some of the world’s most remote locations goal – and got to help raise funds for organisation that Jason had huge respect for.’ conservation side of things this time – maybe – from towering volcanoes to deep sea the RNLI too.’ Having left the Marines himself in the we’ll set up a nature reserve. I’m really excited caves – but he admits his recent adventure Two months into his stay in Applecross, mid-1990s, Monty never saw active service. about it,’ he says, grinning as we hear a bark in the north west of Britain was one of his Monty noticed a poster appealing for ‘There comes a point where it’s time to from the corner of the office. It looks like toughest challenges yet. volunteers to take part in a fundraising move on. I wanted to do more expeditions, someone else is looking forward to going boat pull in aid of the more diving,’ he says. In the years that back too. RNLI. A keen supporter ‘I achieved my goal – and got to followed, he completed a (See page 32 for a review of Monty's book.) of the charity, he help raise funds for the RNLI too.’ signed up. ‘I don’t think I really realised The 2009 BBC TV series Beachcomber what I’d let myself in for!’ he says. The Cottage followed Monty as he moved from magnitude of the task that lay ahead only bustling Bristol to a roofless old hut in began to dawn on him on the morning Applecross, Ross-shire. His mission was to of the event: he had agreed to help pull become self sufficient within 6 months. a replica lifeboat 50 miles along the ‘It was about fulfilling a dream to escape north east coast, from Hope to Thurso, stressful urban life and start again in my in 3 days. ‘It was a great effort. We were favourite landscape. There were times led by a piper, which helped keep up the I found it very hard indeed but the high spirits, but I made the mistake of wearing points were the best times of my life,’ a kilt without anything underneath!’ says smiles the 42-year-old. ‘I learned two very Monty, with a mixture of pain and pride important lessons. First, you have to have on his face. a go. DIY had never held any interest for The boat-pulling men of Applecross

me but I learned that it’s all about trying have raised over £100,000 for the RNLI Halls Monty Photos: – starting is the hard bit. Just picking up and other charities in 7 years, covering a hammer and nails and saying: “I’m going a different 50-mile stretch of coast each VOICES 49

Above and beyond The RNLI’s new Chairman, Admiral The Lord Boyce, is well See what’s on offer this Autumn aware of the sea’s dangers, as he explains to Rory Stamp

Like many of the RNLI’s senior figures, appointed Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports Mike Boyce has inspected several lifeboats and elevated to the peerage. He continues at close quarters. Perhaps the lifeboat that to enjoy the work that being a member of left the biggest impression on him, though, the House of Lords brings – work that is was the craft that rescued him from choppy sometimes undervalued in his view. ‘The waters off the east coast of England in the Lords is dominated by people who are very mid-1980s. ‘I was in a Hobie cat [a small experienced, from all walks of life: scientists, sailing catamaran] and I was caught out doctors, academics and so on. And listening by the conditions – it was a rough day!’ to what they say in the debates is very recalls Lord Boyce, who succeeded Sir Jock rewarding because they genuinely know Slater as RNLI Chairman in November 2008. what they’re talking about. But what goes ‘The rigging parted, the mast came down on behind the scenes in shaping legislation and I had no way of getting back to shore. is also really important with the committee Thankfully, a lifeboat came to my aid.’ work being the engine room of the Lords, It was by no means Lord Boyce’s first turning bills into practical propositions.’ The ideal venue to eat, meet and sleep. brush with danger at sea. His father and Having been an RNLI member for grandfather both served in the Navy and several years, Lord Boyce joined the charity’s Every £1 you spend at the Lifeboat College helps the RNLI save lives at sea. Mike followed in their footsteps – he Council. ‘I had long been impressed by commanded three submarines from the the RNLI, enjoying fundraising events and 1960s until the early 1980s. ‘We were at reading the Lifeboat, but my support for the For details of all our special offers and breaks the cutting edge of the Cold War. It was Institution started to crystallise when a strange life,’ he reflects, adding that I became a Council member.’ throughout the year visit: commanding a submarine is a pressurised Now, as its Chairman, Lord Boyce is job in all senses of the word. ‘It’s effectively determined to help the RNLI continue flying through the water. You don’t get to to weather the stormy financial climate. sleep for very long; you just have to take ‘That’s got to be our immediate concern. rnli.org.uk/tlc_offers naps when you can, because you are always We have exciting things to look forward being called to potential problems. But I to, such as the introduction of the new have no regrets and thoroughly enjoyed it.’ FCB2 lifeboat and the further expansion of To book call: 0870 833 2000 or email: [email protected] Mike’s distinguished service as a lifeguards, while making sure that our core commander led to him being promoted to service is still a well-oiled machine. I and the Flag List in 1991. ‘I had to adapt to a the Chief Executive also have to make sure land-based life which led to my brushing our outstanding volunteers and staff remain shoulders with more politicians than properly motivated and committed.’ submariners,’ he says. His increasingly senior In May, Lord Boyce experienced his roles included Commander-in-Chief Naval first RNLI AGM and Annual Presentation Home Command and Second Sea Lord, of Awards as Chairman, at the Barbican

Commander-in-Chief Fleet and First Sea in London (see page 12). ‘It’s an inspirational Williams Photo: RNLI/Nathan Lord. He was also knighted, held several event – it was lovely to hear cheers of NATO positions, and headed up all the UK support for the awardees,’ he enthuses. armed forces as Chief of Defence Staff. ‘I find the RNLI’s fundraising and operational After a successful naval career lasting volunteers awe inspiring because they are so 42 years, Lord Boyce retired in May 2003 committed to saving lives at sea, whatever but his busy schedule continued. He was their role.’

The Lifeboat College, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland PAGELETTERS TITLE 51

yourDear Editor shout I was involved in February in a night-time rescue of a fisherman who had collapsed while climbing up Tregiffian cliff from a nearby fishing spot. I was assisting his friends with CPR [resuscitation] and saw the Penlee lifeboat in the bay directing the coastguards up the cliff path to us in the dark. As I stood back for them to take over, I counted nine people on the ground plus an RAF helicopter crew of two to three, six to eight lifeboat people and two back-up coastguards. So many individuals had turned out to help someone they had never met. It appeared a hopeless situation as the man had suffered a cardiac arrest long before but no one said: ‘Lets not bother.’ The team worked quietly and calmly, some ‘grey beards’, some young women: many were volunteers. I have been a doctor for 30 years and am in the business of responding to emergencies but I was reminded that on a daily basis ordinary people will turn out to help someone in distress. Tregiffian cliff has a certain resonance and forthe locals, Penlee lifeboatwith the in memory of the loss of the Union Star 1981. I remembered how many lives were lost then and how the RNLI puts incidents like that behind it and continues to respond to emergencies. I am and was seriously impressed.

Dr Barbara Dunning Cornwall

After discussion and further reflection, attendance considerably. Could anglers be pretty exhausting. It might have been best Dr Dunning wrote again: advised to carry maps? to stay put. The friends had a mobile phone signal Lastly, as we waited for the rescue Despite all my experience in GP surgeries and had it on loudspeaker with the call helicopter to winch the man up I heard that he and hospital settings I was surprised how handler giving instructions about CPR. had been feeling unwell and had had to stop affected I was by the experience. I’ve had One of them went across the fields to our several times as he walked up the steep incline some thoughts since that might be helpful house looking for help. It was probably from sea level. If only he had called NHS direct for the future especially if the RNLI liaises 30 minutes before we got back and doing or the emergency services for advice. with fishermen through angling clubs. CPR for that length of time on one’s own is What might have been … Neither of the casualty’s friends knew exactly which part of the cliff they were on so the coastguards went to Tater Du lighthouse first rather than the next To add your shout, write to the Editor at [email protected] or RNLI Headquarters, promontory, Boscawen Point. This delayed West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. 52 THEN AND NOW

Gallantry medals rightly make the headlines but did you know that the Thanks of the Institution Inscribed on Vellum is also one of the RNLI’s most long-serving and prestigious awards? The vellum is made from calfskin and carefully decorated by hand using calligraphy (from the Greek kallos graphe, meaning beauty writing) to record the details of the awardee and the rescue for posterity. The late David Williams, a Fellow of The Society of Scribes and Illuminators, was the RNLI’s calligrapher for over 25 years. He produced hundreds of gallantry vellums, station anniversary vellums and fundraising award certificates until his passing last year. Sally-Mae Joseph and Jan Pickett have now taken on this delicate task. 11647 Bose Lifeboat 265x210:11647 Bose Lifeboat 265x210 11/5/09 15:14 Page 1

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