Yarmouth RNLI crew member, Alex Pimm, has passed out as an all-weather lifeboat navigator.

For the exam, Alex, 29, needed to demonstrate his ability to use charts, Automatic Identification Systems, search patterns and radar, as well as using his local knowledge of The Solent to safely navigate the all-weather lifeboat through potentially challenging weather and sea conditions.

Joining the volunteer crew at 17, Alex is a third-generation member, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, who both served on the crew. He was also christened on Yarmouth Lifeboat in 1996. He said: “I wanted to take after my father. I’d have joined when I was younger if I could!”

This exam now goes towards his qualifications gained in the RNLI operational competency framework (OCF) which is an integral structure for RNLI volunteer’s training. It can take them from joining all the way through to other key all-weather lifeboat roles, such as deputy coxswain, deputy mechanic and navigator.

Alex added: “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported and helped me prepare for this assessment. It was a real joint effort and I look forward to continue my training with the RNLI, and hope to soon pass out as a deputy coxswain.”