A lifeboat volunteer crew member has retired after more than 30 years of service.

Steve Dunnett has looked back on his time at the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) station, in Ferry Road, Hartlepool, and said: “Volunteering with the RNLI has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

“Over the past years dropping everything at the sound of the pager to serve our community and save lives at sea has been an experience I will never forget.

“I am incredibly grateful for the camaraderie and the support of the crew whilst I am looking forward to finally enjoying more time with my wife Gill and my own family and nine grandchildren.

Hartlepool RNLI crew member Steve Dunnett pictured at sea.

placeholder image — Hartlepool RNLI crew member Steve Dunnett pictured at sea.

“But I will miss the adrenaline and the shared purpose that brought us all together in the boathouse.”

Steve, whose son Liam currently works for the RNLI as a fleet operational support lead, added: “Thank you to everyone who has supported, mentored and stood alongside me throughout my time at the lifeboat station.

“I am proud to have played a small part in the charity’s lifesaving mission. I wish you all fair winds, following seas, and safe returns.”

Hartlepool RNLI lifeboat operations manager Steve Pounder said: “Both myself and Steve became volunteers about the same time and have been on many memorable shouts together over the years.

“I would like to thank Steve for his service to the charity and wish him well.”

Station deputy launch authority Robbie Maiden added: “I'm sure Steve will enjoy more time with his family and no doubt have many tales to tell his grandchildren about his many adventures on the lifeboats over the years.”