Trearddur Bay RNLI welcomes first female launch authority in station's history
Trearddur Bay RNLI has welcomed Harriet McCann as a new Deputy Launch Authority. Harriet, former crew of 6 years at Holyhead RNLI now coordinates rescues across the UK as a team leader within HM Coastguard.
The role of the launch authority is broad, and vital to lifeboat station operations. As the first point of contact following a 999 call to HM Coastguard, the launch authority ensures that the most suitable lifeboat is selected, and the crew is tasked appropriately.
No lifeboat can be launched on a shout or exercise without a launch authority’s agreement. They also perform a vital role in the management of the lifeboat station, ensuring boats and equipment are maintained in a constant state of readiness to respond.
Speaking on her new position within the station Harriet said:
‘I am excited to take on this new role in the station. I have known the crew for years and am honoured to be part of a group of dedicated individuals. Joining the management team and contributing to others' growth is a challenge I am eager and prepared to embrace.’
Fellow Deputy Launch Authority Mark Smith added:
‘We are delighted to have Harriet join us. She is a great addition to our operations team and will bring a wealth of knowledge to the crew.’
You may have recently seen Harriet and her husband Leigh one of our Helms are fundraising for the London Marathon in aid of the RNLI. You can read more about that and support their journey here:
We are Running the TCS London Marathon for the RNLI
RNLI media contacts:
For further information, please contact Megan Dixon, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07922 303963 or email [email protected].
Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on 07977 728315 or email [email protected], or the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or [email protected].
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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
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