RNLI Lymington crew member who was on BBC series steps down

Ben Bradley Watson was one of RNLI Lymington's long-standing crew members, having volunteered at the lifeboat station for 23 years. 

The group said that Ben joined the crew as he had a 'passion for the water' and had lived and worked nearby as a yacht boat broker at Ancasta. 

It was reported that even though Ben has not always worked nearby, he still maintained his support for the station and the crew through multiple events.

A spokesperson for RNLI Lymington said: "Although he has not always worked locally, he maintained his support for the lifeboat not only as crew but also as part of the wider commitments, such as the Lymington 10k, the Remembrance Day parade, Station Open day and all the other smaller events the crew support."

The team added that Ben subsequently returned to working nearby with Berthon Boat Company where it was possible to offer good day cover for the station.

Ben's experience and seamanship were critical over his years as a crew member.  He carried out 179 shouts with 12 lives saved and over 436 hours at sea both in training and shouts.

Ben was even featured on Saving Lives at Sea, a documentary series about the RNLI crews across the UK. 

Ben said: "Over the 23 years, there have been huge changes in the RNLI both locally and at HQ, particularly in the equipment we use and how we train.

At Lymington have seen us transition from the Atlantic 21 to the Atlantic 75 and 85 and building of a new boat house, as well as new training college and lifeboat building yard at Poole HQ.

"But the best part by far has been the Lymington crew, particularly the crew nights put, family functions, and fundraisers.

"In between which we have been known to occasionally rescue people."

The crew went on to thank Ben for his 'amazing' years of commitment and dedication to the lifeboat station. 

A spokesperson for RNLI Lymington added: "Thank you Ben for all your amazing years of commitment and dedication to the Lymington RNLI."