History has been made at Bembridge RNLI lifeboat station this week as Dawn Hodge becomes the first-ever female helm since the station was founded some 155 years ago.
Dawn, who joined the lifeboat in November 2018, has successfully passed her D-Class helm assessment meaning she can now take control of the inshore lifeboat in missions.
Dawn was born and grew up in Bembridge before leaving the Island to study at university in Leeds. After graduating, she worked in sports management for several years, latterly for UK Sport in London working in world sports events.
After her stint in London, Dawn moved to France and ran a ski chalet business with her partner, before returning to the Island in 2010. Dawn now works as a sports massage and soft tissue therapist, having trained at the prestigious London School of Sports Massage.
When not on the lifeboat or working, Dawn can often be found on the golf course. Dawn has always loved her sport and has previous representative honours in rugby, hockey and athletics.
John Keyworth, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Bembridge RNLI, has said:
“I am delighted with Dawn’s progress since joining the station just three years ago. She joined with no boating experience but has now achieved the position of helm. It is a testament to her commitment, passion and enthusiasm – not forgetting of course the countless hours of study and practice she has put in to achieve this position.”
Guy Willing, Coxswain of Bembridge Lifeboat, has said:
“The responsibility of helm on the inshore lifeboat is one which requires a calm head and hand in what can be testing conditions. Now I know that the tradition of highly competent helms at Bembridge RNLI will be carried on and I have no doubt Dawn will do us proud in the future.”
Speaking about her success, Dawn herself has said:
“It’s a privilege to be a helm at Bembridge, let alone the first female helm. I’ve loved the challenges so far that being on the lifeboat have presented. I hope that my success shows that you don’t need to have a maritime background to get involved and will inspire more girls and women to volunteer for the RNLI.”
many congratulations before an accident my son was a helm in Cowes and l know how hard you have worked for this position, you must be very proud of yourself.
Well done, Dawn. from your old teacher Francis Hicks.
Well done , Dawn from your old IS teacher FH
Call me old fashioned, but I personally don’t think woman should be put in such a dangerous position.
Especially if they have children ect.
I personally think woman should be exposed to positions such as this – why should men be expected to take all the risks in this so called equal society
Dr.jollop
crawl back under the rock you just come out from you old p..t
Well, if they can’t park a car,
How are they going to park a boat !