History made once again at Pwllheli RNLI

After completing her training, Caroline now steps into this vital operational role as Head Launcher. This means she will take charge of the operations connected with the safe launch and recovery of the all-weather Shannon class lifeboat and inshore D class lifeboat as well as overseeing the shore crew. This comes a few months since the appointment of the station's first ever female Launch Authority and first ever female Launch Vehicle Driver.

Caroline’s appointment is especially meaningful considering local RNLI history. Back in 1891, the first ever lifeboat at Pwllheli was named the Caroline Richardson — making this another remarkable ‘Caroline first’ for the station.

Speaking about her achievement, Caroline Jones said:

‘I’m incredibly proud to have achieved the role of Head Launcher and am truly honoured to be given this responsibility.

'It means a great deal to me to support the crew here in Pwllheli and help ensure we’re ready to respond to calls for help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

'The RNLI’s mission of saving lives at sea is one I care very much about — and I’m grateful to be part of a charity that is powered by volunteers and funded entirely by generous supporters.

'I have volunteered at Pwllheli Lifeboat Station for over three years now and worked my way up through shore crew and launch vehicle driver roles, before reaching this position. Becoming a Head Launcher is not only a personal triumph, but also an inspiring step forward in breaking down barriers in traditionally male-dominated maritime roles and underlines the RNLI’s inclusive spirit and welcoming one crew ethos.'

-ENDS-

Notes to editor:

Pwllheli lifeboat station has been operating since 1891. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/pwllheli-lifeboat-station

RNLI media contacts

For more information, please contact Caroline Jones, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on [email protected] or 07753 397977.

Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Photo

Caroline Jones (left) with RNLI trainer assessor.

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

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