Bangor RNLI Celebrates Outstanding Week as Five Volunteers Pass Key Operational Assessments

Wednesday 4 June 2026

BANGOR, Co Down - Bangor RNLI is celebrating an exceptional week after five volunteer crew members successfully passed important RNLI assessments, strengthening the station's operational capability both at sea and on shore.

Bangor RNLI Celebrates Outstanding Week as Five Volunteers Pass Key Operational Assessments. Photo Credit: RNLI/Bangor

The successful candidates are: Tom Bell, who qualified as a Launch Authority, Charlie Burns, who passed as Head Launcher, Lee Mercer, who achieved qualification as Tier 2 Crew, Rob Pogson and Tarek Qutteineh, who both qualified as Shore Crew.

The achievements reflect the RNLI's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of training and operational readiness across all aspects of lifesaving work.

Mark Mitchell, RNLI Coastal Trainer, praised the group for their dedication and performance.

"I was very impressed with all the crew who passed assessments this week. They all achieved very high pass marks and should be extremely proud of their accomplishments."

The RNLI invests heavily in training its volunteer crews, ensuring they are equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to respond safely and effectively to a wide range of incidents. From launching lifeboats in challenging weather conditions to supporting complex rescue operations, every role within the station is essential to saving lives at sea.

As a newly qualified Launch Authority, Tom Bell will be responsible for making the critical decision to launch the lifeboat when an emergency call is received. The role carries significant responsibility, requiring sound judgement, local knowledge and a thorough understanding of operational procedures.

Charlie Burns' qualification as Head Launcher places him in charge of coordinating shore-side launch operations. The Head Launcher ensures that crew, equipment and the lifeboat are prepared and deployed safely and efficiently, often under considerable time pressure.

Meanwhile, Lee Mercer has qualified as Tier 2 Crew, an important milestone for operational lifeboat crew members. Tier 2 crew are trained to undertake a wider range of duties aboard the lifeboat, contributing directly to search and rescue missions and helping to ensure the safety of both fellow crew members and casualties.

Rob Pogson and Tarek Qutteineh have both qualified as Shore Crew, a vital role that supports every launch and recovery. Shore Crew members assist with moving and preparing the lifeboat, managing equipment, maintaining safety around the station and ensuring the smooth operation of rescue activities on land.

Bangor RNLI emphasises that every role within the station is equally important. While lifeboat crews may be the most visible element of a rescue, successful operations depend on the combined efforts of trained volunteers working together both on the water and ashore.

The station operates as one team, where each member plays a crucial part in delivering the RNLI's lifesaving service. Without the Launch Authority authorising the launch, the Head Launcher coordinating operations, the Shore Crew supporting the deployment, and the operational crew carrying out the rescue, the lifeboat simply could not go to sea.

This week's successes highlight not only the dedication of the volunteers involved but also the strength of the training programme that underpins the RNLI's lifesaving mission. As Bangor RNLI continues to serve its local community and visitors to the area, these newly qualified volunteers will help ensure the station remains ready to respond whenever the call for help comes.