April 23rd, 2025.



Volunteer Newhaven RNLI crew member Alex Beckett has qualified as Coxswain. Since joining the RNLI in June 2018, Alex has dedicated himself to developing the skills necessary for this vital role.

Following over three years of intensive training both on station at Newhaven and at the RNLI’s training college in Poole, Alex is now fully certified to take command of Newhaven’s Severn class all-weather lifeboat operations at sea.

This prestigious achievement comes after completing over 1,075 hours of training and attending 94 incidents along the Sussex coast.

Alex said: "It’s an honour to take on the role of Coxswain. The training has been challenging, but enormously rewarding.

"I’ve been fortunate to learn from some of the best at Newhaven and beyond and I’m grateful to be part of a crew so committed to saving lives at sea."

Alex’s final assessments were conducted by Dave Needham, one of the RNLI’s Coastal Lifeboat Trainers, who is external to the station.

The pass-out process involved rigorous onshore and offshore testing, covering navigation, search and rescue coordination, command leadership and emergency procedures. Alex is also qualified as a Navigator, First Aider and is also volunteer crew on Newhaven’s D class in-shore lifeboat.

Roger Cohen MBE, Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: "Alex has shown exceptional commitment and professionalism throughout his training. We are incredibly proud to see him step into this important leadership role."

This milestone further strengthens the capability of Newhaven RNLI’s lifesaving service, ensuring the station remains ready to respond when help is needed, keeping people safe along our coast.


Pictured: Alex Beckett (left) pass-out approved by Dave Needham. Immage Credit - RNLI/Roger Cohen MBE.