Looe RNLI’s Goron Jones Earns Helm Qualification After Months of Training

A proud moment for Looe’s volunteer lifeboat crew

After several months of training, Looe RNLI volunteer crew member Goron Jones has successfully qualified as a D-class inshore lifeboat helm.

On the afternoon of Wednesday 29th October 2025, Goron was joined by fellow helm Jack Spree and RNLI assessor and trainer Ollie George aboard the charity’s D-class inshore lifeboat Ollie Naismith II for his final assessment in Looe Bay.

The test assessed Goron’s command of both an incident and the lifeboat itself, alongside his navigation, search, rescue, and emergency procedure skills.

Putting theory into practice

To reach this stage, Goron completed written assessments covering navigation, seamanship, and search patterns before being required to demonstrate his knowledge and decision-making out on the water.

Recognition from the station

Later that evening, as the inshore lifeboats were being recovered, Looe RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager Clive Palfrey congratulated Goron, saying:

“The role of an inshore lifeboat helm is very important as it requires sound judgement and leadership, often in challenging and hazardous conditions. Goron success is testament to the many hours of training he had put in to learn the theory and practical skills of being a helm, ably supported and encouraged by the many other volunteers here at the station. I am sure he will continue to develop his skills, ready to lead his fellow crew members when out on a shout or training, continuing Looe Lifeboat Station’s proud tradition of saving lives at sea.”

Looe RNLI continues to rely on dedicated volunteers like Goron and his fellow crew members to keep people safe along the Cornish coast.

📷Looe RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager Clive Palfrey congratulating Looe RNLI’s latest helm, Goron Jones - Credit: RNLI/Ian Foster