Ted Ward Qualifies as Tier One Lifeboat Crew Member at Lymington RNLI Station
The RNLI Lymington crew is celebrating the success of one of its youngest volunteers, Ted Ward, who has officially qualified as a Tier One lifeboat crew member after completing a rigorous training and assessment process.
Ted passed out during a live exercise on Monday night in the Solent, where he was required to put a wide range of practical skills to the test. These included towing a vessel, operating the salvage pump, correctly anchoring the lifeboat, and maintaining clear and effective communications with the Coastguard throughout the scenario.
Ted’s journey with the RNLI began in October 2021 but his connection to the charity goes back further. He was first introduced to the lifesaving work of the RNLI when he was rescued himself. Ted’s dinghy capsized near the mouth of the Lymington River, and it was the local RNLI crew who came to his aid.
'The experience definitely stayed with me,' said Ted. 'It made me realise how important the RNLI is—not just for big emergencies out at sea, but also for local sailors like me. After that, I knew I wanted to get involved and give something back.'
Since joining, Ted has shown great commitment to his training. Over the past year, he has completed extensive modules in seamanship, navigation, search and rescue procedures, casualty care, and teamwork under pressure. He has also taken part in regular drills and exercises and shouts both on the water and onshore.
Al Mackay, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Lymington RNLI said 'Ted has been a great addition to the crew. It’s always inspiring to see young people like him stepping up and giving their time to help save lives at sea.'
Suzanne Brown, Lifeboat Press Officer, Lymington Lifeboat Station [email protected].uk
Hatti Mellor, Regional Media Officer, SE and London . M:07724801305
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Ted’s story is a reminder of the life changing impact of the RNLI, not only for those rescued, but for those who step forward to become lifesavers themselves.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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