St Davids RNLI has welcomed its first female to helm the inshore lifeboat.

Two volunteer crew members at RNLI St Davids recently completed rigorous training to qualify as the station’s newest inshore lifeboat helms.

Ellen Evans, Maritime Operations Officer at HM Coastguard, and Julian Whitewright, Maritime Archaeologist at the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales, both “passed out” as the charity’s D-Class helms.

Ellen Evans, Maritime Operations Officer at HM Coastguard, and Julian Whitewright
Ellen Evans, Maritime Operations Officer at HM Coastguard, and Julian Whitewright (St Davids RNLI)

The process culminated in a practical assessment afloat ensuring they could manage the boat and crew safely. Search planning and VHF Radio assessments were completed, along with a written paper covering International Rules for the Prevention of Collision at Sea (IRPCS).

Ellen’s pass out marks a historic moment for St Davids lifeboat station as she becomes the first female D-Class helm in the history of the station.

Ellen pictured with children Albie and Isla
Ellen pictured with children Albie and Isla (RNLI St Davids)

Will Chant, RNLI Coxswain for St Davids RNLI lifeboat, said: “Both Ellen and Julian have put a tremendous amount of time and effort into completing all the required training to fulfil the roles and be an inshore lifeboat commander.

“I’m delighted for both of them in light of the work and time they’ve invested and thank them for their commitment to the charity.”