RNLI Operations Chief set to retire from role

The man at the helm of lifeboat operations in Lyme Regis, Nick Marks, is stepping down after seven years of service.

The sixty-nine-year-old held a senior role at the lifeboat station and was responsible for the safe and efficient running of the lifeboat’s 24/7 life-saving service.

Mr Marks said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my stint and am only stepping down to make way for someone a bit younger.

“During my time we have seen many changes in the way the RNLI expects the station to be run and how the crew is trained.

“But what has not changed is the selfless dedication of our volunteer crew and their willingness to answer the call at any time of night or day and in any weather.”

The former Royal Navy Captain does not plan on leaving the RNLI and will lead the Water Safety team in the area.

He added: “I am particularly proud of the fact that the lifeboat has never failed to respond to a call for help because of a lack of crew or failure of equipment or procedures, even during the pandemic.

“I am also proud that as a crew we are more diverse. When I joined, we had no female crew members - Today we have three.”

The yachtmaster is retiring from his role in line with RNLI’s policy on age retirement and they are now looking for a new team member to fill the role the Lyme Regis Lifeboat Operations Chief.

Mr. Marks said: “The role would suit someone with maritime and managerial experience who lives within a few miles of the lifeboat station and who is able to devote time and energy to ensuring that the crew, lifeboat, and station are fully prepared to meet the demands of any rescue.”

The RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews provide lifesaving services through volunteers wherever possible, with a 24-hour rescue service in the UK and Ireland, funded by voluntary donations.

The RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager role is available to apply for here: www.rnli.org.uk/volunteering/volunteeringopportunities/Lyme and applications close on August 21.