July 13, 2025.



Newhaven RNLI volunteer crew Sam Briggs has achieved Tier 2 level passout for All-Weather Lifeboat operations following her final assessment. Back at the station congratulations had to wait, as no sooner had the kettle boiled, the pagers bleeped.

Achieving Tier 2 status reflects a deep commitment to training and the ability to perform under pressure. It signifies that a volunteer crew has progressed and successfully completed training in more advanced skills and knowledge required for lifeboat operations.

Sam said: "The ALB was washed down. We were just about to settle down with a cup of tea. It was beautiful and sunny on the deck. And then the pagers went off.

"We were still in our kit and there were plenty of hands to get the boat launched quickly."

The request for urgent assistance came in from Seaford, where a woman was in trouble in the water. The 24th service call for Newhaven’s ILB this year, the lifeboat made best speed. The volunteer crew located the woman over 200 metres offshore.

The Newhaven RNLI crew assisted the woman onto the lifeboat and took her to safety. Back at the station the team were finally able to congratulate Sam.


Image credit: RNLI/Emmeline Ravilious