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Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Helmsman Laurie Honoured With Official Farewell

The departure from Cowes RNLI lifeboat of one of its helms was marked with a presentation ceremony at the station.

Laurie O'Callaghan’s local lifeboat connection began back in 2007 when he joined the-then independent lifeboat as a prospective crew member.

The following year he became a fully-fledged crew member.

Having departed before the RNLI took over the service in 2008, he returned two years later, and in 2014 joined his father, Richard, as one of the station’s helms.

Although Richard eventually retired as a helm, Laurie continued in the role until his work and personal commitments meant he was no longer available.

As a 2nd officer with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, he currently has a shore-based post at Portsmouth Dockyard, and a home in North Somerset.

In November he married Emily who is a third officer with the RFA.

Laurie, 32, said:

“My father encouraged me to join Cowes lifeboat and I have very good memories of my time here.”

Cowes operations manager, Mark Southwell, praised his seamanship and leadership while at Cowes, adding:

“Hopefully one day he will live near a lifeboat station and serve with the RNLI again.”

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