Seahouses RNLI appoints full-time coxswain/mechanic

Craig Pringle, from Seahouses, has been appointed to the role, after topping a list of strong contenders.

He was previously a skipper on one of the passenger vessels, which take visitors to the Farne Islands.

Craig has a partner and recently became the proud father of a daughter.

He lives close to the station, has extensive local knowledge of the coastline and the Farne Islands, and only recently joined the crew as a volunteer.

When the post was advertised for a full-time coxswain/mechanic, he decided to apply.

Seahouses RNLI’s station operations mxanager, Ian Clayton, said: “The calibre of applicants was very high, making the selection process a complex one.

“However, Craig was identified as the best-suited and qualified candidate.

“His appointment is a very popular one, both with the crew and the local community. We are delighted to see him now in post.

“He is training alongside a fleet staff coxswain, and will be attending a number of courses at the Lifeboat College at RNLI Headquarters, Poole, to fully equip him with the necessary skills and expertise for the job.

“The station has been without a full-time coxswain since the retirement of the previous coxswain in March last year, placing pressure on our volunteer coxswains.

“With a new all-weather Shannon-class lifeboat arriving on station next year, Craig will have a lot of work ahead, but the station is confident he is more than capable of meeting the challenge.”

The station is still recruiting lifeboat and shore crew. Anyone interested should contact the station on 01665 720370.