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RNLI volunteer qualifies as mechanic on Cromer RNLI's lifeboat

Lifeboats News Release

Tim Ballard has passed out as a mechanic on the station’s Tamar class all-weather lifeboat.

RNLI/Neil Longdin

Tim Ballard, Cromer RNLI volunteer on training exercise with the Station's inshore lifeboat
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Cromer RNLI is proud to announce that dedicated volunteer Tim Ballard has officially qualified as a mechanic on the station’s Tamar class all-weather lifeboat (ALB).

Tim has been volunteering with Cromer RNLI for the past 13 years, already serving as helm on the station's inshore lifeboat navigator, crew member on the ALB, and is shore crew in addition.

His latest qualification marks a major milestone in his journey with the charity and strengthens the operational capability of the Cromer station.

"It’s a real honour to step into the role of mechanic," said Tim. "I’ve learned so much from the crew here at Cromer, and it’s great to be able to contribute in a new way.

"The lifeboat means a lot to the town — and to be trusted with helping to keep her running smoothly is something I’m really proud of."

As a qualified mechanic, Tim will play a key role in ensuring the readiness, safety, and performance of the Tamar lifeboat during emergency shouts, working closely with the rest of the volunteer team to maintain the RNLI’s high standards of rescue capability.

John Redmond, Cromer RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: "We’re thrilled for Tim — becoming a lifeboat mechanic is no small feat. It takes technical knowledge, commitment, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Tim embodies everything the RNLI stands for.”

The RNLI relies on volunteers like Tim to deliver its lifesaving work at sea. His progression highlights the training, teamwork, and dedication that underpin every rescue operation.

RNLI Media contacts

For more information please contact Clare Stagg, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [email protected]

Key facts about Cromer RNLI

The Cromer Lifeboat Station was established in 1804 and was not taken over by the Institution from the Norfolk Shipwreck Association until 1857. Since 1923 there have been two lifeboats at Cromer, and currently there is a D Class inshore boat and Tamar all-weather lifeboat. The outstanding figure in the history of Cromer is Henry George Blogg who became a member of the Cromer crew in 1894 at the age of 18. He was coxswain from 1909-1947. During his 53 years as a lifeboat crew member, the Cromer lifeboats had been on service 387 times and rescued 873 lives. His record is without equal in the history of the Institution. No lifeboat crew member has received so many decorations for gallantry.

RNLI/Neil Longdin

Tim Ballard, Cromer RNLI volunteer on training exercise with the Station's inshore lifeboat
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RNLI/Emma Tuck

Tim Ballard, Cromer RNLI volunteer with Stormy Stan
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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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.

About the author

Clare Stagg
Lifeboat Press Officer, Cromer Lifeboat Station

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