Teignmouth Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) has strengthened its shore crew after two new volunteers passed their qualifications.

Ruth Paton and Tom Schetler successfully passed out of their trainee assessments last week following a visit from RNLI trainee assessor Lyle Stantiford.

The pair joined Teignmouth Lifeboat Station at the start of the summer. They have spent the last few months working hard to learn the wide range of skills needed to support the volunteer lifeboat operations.

As shore crew, they play a vital role in launching and recovering the lifeboat, managing the safety of the launch area, refuelling and servicing the boats when they return from a ‘shout’ or training exercise, maintaining the equipment, and ensuring the crew and boat are ready to respond whenever the pager sounds.

‘It’s been an incredible few months learning from such a dedicated team,’ said Ruth.’ I’ve loved getting stuck in and understanding how every role contributes to saving lives at sea.’

Tom added: ‘Becoming part of the RNLI has been really rewarding. The training has been thorough and challenging, but the support from everyone at the station has been fantastic.’

Station Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) Andy Lilburn said, ‘we’re delighted to see Ruth and Tom qualify as shore crew. They’ve shown great enthusiasm and commitment from day one, and their hard work and teamwork have really paid off. They’ll be a real asset to the station.’

Teignmouth RNLI operates from the original 1862 lifeboat house near the Point car park. It carries out around 50 rescues each year. Volunteers play an essential role in providing the 24-hour search and rescue service which is funded entirely by voluntary donations and legacies.