Seven volunteer crew members at Teddington Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Lifeboat Station have achieved significant training milestones this week, successfully passing out to take on critical operational roles as navigators and head launchers.

Training to be an RNLI navigator and head launcher involves a structured, competency-based programme combining regular station exercises, specialised shore or onboard duties, and formal assessments.

The ILB (Inshore Lifeboat) Navigator role is a fairly new role within the RNLI, incorporating the first elements of commanding a lifeboat whilst out on a shout or an exercise. The role requires excellent local knowledge, as well as technical, practical and theoretical competency.

These specific roles are absolutely essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the station's rescues on the River Thames:

• Navigators: a role responsible for advanced passage planning, electronic and radar positioning at sea, and safely guiding the Teddington-based D-class lifeboats through complex river conditions and tidal changes.

• Head Launchers: A vital shore crew role that leads the launch and recovery team. They coordinate the safe deployment of lifeboats into the water, guide them back to base, and manage the safety of the general public during operations.

As one of the busiest RNLI lifeboat stations on the river Thames, having seven newly qualified volunteers significantly strengthens the charity's 24/7 emergency response capabilities.

A Teddington RNLI spokesperson said: "A massive thank you must go to the dedicated trainers, assessors, and fellow station crew members.

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"Their countless hours spent teaching, mentoring, and preparing their fellow volunteers keep the stations operational and ready to save lives."