Father-son duo take the helm at RNLI in Union Hall

Union Hall RNLI has welcomed its newest volunteer helm.

Darren Collins, son of existing helm Chris Collins, was welcomed to the fleet in his new role, marking the station’s first father-son helm duo.

Darren was already a part of the volunteer crew at Union Hall but succeeded to the position of volunteer helm this week.

The helm is responsible for the inshore lifeboat during launching, at sea, and through recovery, as well as the safety of the crew on board.

As part of this, Darren has undertaken intensive training and assessments both at the lifeboat station in Union Hall and at the Lifeboat College in Poole, Dorset, England.

Following the success of passing his final assessment, Darren can now be responsible for taking command of the lifeboat and ensuring volunteers remain safe while afloat.

“Thanks to the RNLI for the invaluable training and support in my role as helm,” Darren said this week.

“I’m grateful for the skills and confidence you’ve helped me build to save lives at sea.”

During his training and assessment, Darren has been supported by the rest of the volunteer crew and now fellow helms.

As well as working alongside his father, Darren is also joined by his sister Niamh, who is shore crew with the Union Hall team.

Lifeboat operations manager at Union Hall RNLI, John Kelleher, said: “All of us at Union Hall RNLI are delighted to congratulate helm Darren on this remarkable achievement.

“Your dedication, skill, and commitment to saving lives at sea is inspiring, [and] the community deeply appreciates your unwavering service and bravery.”