With qualifications on the D-Class lifeboat and training underway for the B-Class Atlantic 85, he’s always looking to develop his skills and support the crew however he can. A long-time lover of the sea, Simon spends his free time surfing and paddleboarding—activities that inspired him to take the plunge and volunteer. His connection to the water made joining the RNLI a natural next step, combining his hobbies with a desire to give back to the community.

One of Simon’s most memorable rescues involved saving a paddleboarder who had been blown out to sea in strong winds. Exhausted and barely keeping her head above water, she was clinging to her board when Simon and the crew arrived. It’s moments like these—when lives are truly on the line—that fuel his commitment.

For Simon, the most rewarding part of the role is the chance to help others in need and be part of something bigger than himself. He values the camaraderie and shared purpose among the team at the station, and the sense of pride that comes from making a real difference.

To those considering joining, Simon offers honest advice: "It can be very rewarding, but there’s a lot people don’t see. Be prepared for plenty of cleaning—every bit of kit needs attention after training and every shout. There’s also a lot of training and reading, so be ready for that too. But we make sure to keep things lighthearted when we can—after all, it’s got to be fun in between the serious stuff. Oh, and yes, you will get wet!"