Hartlepool RNLI volunteer takes the helm of inshore lifeboat

Colm Simpson, 30, recently qualified as a helm for the inshore lifeboat Solihull at the Ferry Road lifeboat station in Hartlepool.

The former English Martyrs pupil attended the RNLI College, in Poole, as part of a five day helm training course and was also assessed over a period of time at the Ferry Road lifeboat station.

He has since become just one of six volunteer helms.

He said: “I'm very proud to become one of the helms at the station.

"The training has been quite intense with a lot to learn.”

Hartlepool RNLI lifeboat operations manager, Chris Hornsey, said: “Colm has worked hard to become a helm and we all hope he enjoys this important role and playing his part in saving lives at sea along with the other volunteers.”