Crew undergo fitness tests On 26th June 2008 Howard Fields RNLI Trainer/Assessor arrived on station to put crew members through their fitness tests. Eight crew successfully completed assessments on strength, grip, general fitness and cardiovascular recovery. All crew must now undergo these tests as part of Competence Based Training.
More training for Paul In early June Paul Eatock will travel to the RNLI's Lifeboat Training College at Poole and take part in the Atlantic Inshore Lifeboat Introduction Course ( see Training page for course pictures). Once successfully completed he will receive the RNLI Introduction Course certificate and RYA Powerboat 2 certificate.
Crewman passes driving test Congratulations to crewmember Paul Eatock on passing his assessment by Deputy Divisional Engineer Neil Hancock in the use of the RNLI Talus MB-4H Tractor. Although firstly a crewmember Paul will now be able to stand in as a driver when required to support the shore team in the launch and recovery of the lifeboat.
Assistant Inshore Lifeboat Mechanic appointed Lifeboat Helmsman Jeff Brown has been appointed Assistant Inshore Lifeboat Mechanic by Lifeboat Operations Manager Les Fayers. As a crewmember he has many years experience with the Atlantic Lifeboat and was a member of the Crew Consultation Team involved with the development of the Atlantic 85. In February 2006 he completed the Inshore Lifeboat Mechanics course at the Training College in Poole, as assistant to to the Inshore Lifeboat Mechanic Richard Martin, Jeff will stand in when he is not available or on holiday.
Crewman developes new skills The ongoing training program to have additional qualified tractor drivers on station took another step forward on 24th July 2008. Prospective Helmsman Gary Oliver, successfully passed the assessment in the use of the RNLI Talus MB-4H Tractor. Although firstly a crewmember, Gary can now support the shore staff with his addition skills if and when required.
Crew assist in Morpeth flooding On Saturday 6th September, crewmembers Jeff Brown, Chris Main and Mark Parker travel to the Morpeth area, to assist other rescue services, following severe flooding. The crew joined RNLI Inspectors, lifeboat crews from Blyth, Amble and Redcar, RAF Helicopters and Coastguards from Newbiggin and Blyth. Many properties in the town, had to be evacuated, in operation starting in the late afternoon and extending through, into the night.
Mark joins the crew The station would like to welcome Mark Pearson onto the crew at Newbiggin, Mark passed the compulsary medical in November. RNLI Asssessor/Trainer Howard Fields then passed Mark on the first units in Competence Based Training which allow him to go to sea on training and service calls. Mark is now taking part in the RNLI First Aid Course with the rest of the crew adding to the many skills required to man the Lifeboat on service.
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