RNLI recruits first woman manager at station
RNLIA lifeboat station has recruited its first female operations manager in its 235-year history.
Sheridan Bowler has become the first fully trained Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM) since the station at Tynemouth began saving lives in 1790, before it became part of the RNLI in 1862.
Ms Bowler, who replaces Doug Nicholson following his retirement in April, has previously held roles on inshore and all-weather lifeboats and as a lifeboat training coordinator.
She said she hopes her appointment will inspire more female volunteers and the next generation of lifesavers.
Ms Bowler said: "It's been a huge learning curve for me moving from crew to the LOM within Tynemouth RNLI, but I am up for the challenge.
"I'm grateful to all the crew for their support.
"I'm looking forward to working alongside them all to continue striving forward and being the best we can to save life at sea as one crew."
'Represent community'
Ms Bowler said the station has seen a slow increase in the number of female volunteers.
"I'm hoping seeing a female in the LOM position for the first time in Tynemouth's history will help to inspire the next generation of lifesavers, allowing us to better represent the community in which we serve," she said.
The Lifeboat Operations Manager oversees the operations team and has responsibility for the crew at station.
Doug Nicholson served as station LOM for over four years.
A RNLI spokesperson said: "Everyone at Tynemouth RNLI wishes him the best in his retirement."
Tynemouth's crews have launched the lifeboats 2,632 times and saved 854 lives in its 200-year plus history.