St Ives RNLI Appoints First Crew Representative to Operations Team

St Ives RNLI Lifeboat Station has announced the appointment of its first ever Crew Representative to the Operations Team.

A new voice at the table

The newly created role will see a crew member sit in on the station’s monthly management meetings, making sure feedback from the crew is shared directly with the wider Operations Team.

These meetings include the Lifeboat Operations Manager, Coxswains, Senior Station Technician, Launch Authorities, Lifeboat Press Officer and Lifeboat Admin Officer. The addition of a Crew Representative is intended to strengthen communication and collaboration across the station.

Paul Le Bas elected by the crew

Following a vote among the crew, Paul Le Bas was elected to take on the role. Paul has been part of the St Ives lifeboat crew since October 2011 and brings more than a decade of experience to the position.

Speaking about his appointment, Paul said:
‘I moved to St Ives in 1996 after meeting my wife on the beach. St Ives kindly accepted me and I wanted to give something back to the community. By joining the crew, I feel that I have gone a little way towards doing that. Having the opportunity to represent the crew is a real honour for me, especially having been voted in by them makes it even more special.’

Support beyond the station

Away from his lifeboat duties, Paul works for Aspects Holidays, covering the North Coast. The company is a supporter of the work carried out at the lifeboat station, and the team at St Ives RNLI have extended their thanks for that ongoing support.

Paul also highlighted the importance of the wider community, adding:
‘I would also like to thank the town for all their support of the station and help over the years, and to the visitors to the town. Without this support, the station and crew would not be able to do what we do.’

Looking ahead

The introduction of the Crew Representative role is described as an important step in helping the station continue to thrive, with a focus on teamwork, transparency and community support.

📷Paul Le Bas, St Ives RNLI new Crew Representative - Credit: RNLI/Paul Le Bas