RNLI Mudeford Lifeboat

29/10/2026

CONGRATULATIONS MEL AND MIKE!

Many congratulations to Mudeford RNLI volunteers Mel Varvel and Mike Newman, who have passed out as Helm and Navigator respectively.

Mel has made history as the first female Helm at Mudeford Lifeboat Station. Joining the Mudeford Lifeboat Station in 2016, Mel received an ‘RNLI Letter of Commendation’ in 2023 in recognition of her bravery and skill during a challenging rescue in which a boat was drifting perilously close to running on to rocks.

Mike, joined the crew in 2023 and quickly rose through the ranks completing the training needed to qualify as Tier Two boat crew in 2025 before going on to pass out as Navigator just one year later.

The roles of Helm and Navigator are two of the most demanding and responsible operational roles aboard an RNLI lifeboat, requiring extensive training, experience and rigorous assessment.

The Helm commands the lifeboat, making operational decisions and taking overall responsibility for the safety of the crew, casualties and lifeboat during rescue operations.

The Navigator supports the Helm by planning and monitoring safe routes, identifying navigational hazards and providing accurate position and navigational information.

Steve Doe, volunteer Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said, ‘On behalf of all the crew at Mudeford Lifeboat Station, many congratulations to Mel and Mike on completing their training and successfully passing out as Helm and Navigator.

'Their commitment and hard work have been outstanding, and we wish them continued success as part of the Mudeford RNLI family.’

Mudeford RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, has launched 79 times this year so far and 77 times in 2025.

Photo: Mudeford RNLI's newly qualified Navigator, Mike Newman (L) and first female Helm, Mel Varvel (R)
(Credit: Mudeford RNLI/Rob King)

26/10/2026

On 22 Oct Mudeford RNLI, Yarmouth RNLI and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 375 were tasked following reports of an upturned fishing vessel approximately 2.5 nautical miles from the Needles. See Yarmouth RNLI’s post below for details of the shout.

📟 SERVICE UPDATE 📟
22.10.26

At 5:45pm on Thursday 22 October, Yarmouth RNLI Lifeboat was launched by HM Coastguard following reports of a capsized vessel and a person in the water near the North East Shingles Buoy.

An immediate launch was requested by the Coastguard whilst the crew were mustering for their Thursday evening exercise and as the crew were already kitted up and ready to go, the lifeboat was able to leave Yarmouth Harbour at best speed within ten minutes of the pagers sounding.

Yarmouth lifeboat arrived on scene approximately five minutes later and found a lone fisherman clinging to their upturned vessel. The Coxswain of Yarmouth Lifeboat quickly manoeuvred the Severn Class Lifeboat alongside the casualty vessel, and the fisherman was safely recovered onboard where they were then provided casualty care by the RNLI volunteer crew.

The casualty explained that they had been inside the cabin when the boat capsized and had been forced to swim out from beneath the overturned hull. They were thoroughly soaked and there was a strong possibility that they had inhaled water, so the lifeboat requested the assistance of Rescue Helicopter 375's paramedic to assess their condition.

While the casualty was being assessed, Mudeford’s Atlantic 85 Lifeboat, who had also been tasked, remained on scene with the capsized vessel as it had started to drift past Yarmouth and into the busy ferry shipping route. Navigation lights were attached to the vessel, and its position was passed to Solent Coastguard.

Following a full assessment, the paramedic gave the casualty the all-clear who was then transferred to Lymington onboard the all-weather lifeboat, where they were met by Lymington Coastguard Rescue Team and the casualty's next of kin.

The capsized vessel remained marked, and its position monitored by the Coastguard.

Yarmouth RNLI would like to take this opportunity to thank Needles NCI, whose quick reactions to alert Solent Coastguard when spotting the casualty in the water, resulted in a life saved.



NCI Needles

26/10/2026

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO MARINERS

The end of the 2026 season is fast drawing to a close for many pleasure boat owners. As such this notice is issued to advise that subject to favourable weather conditions, we will be removing the harbour markers for their annual maintenance and refurbishment during the first week of November.

Christchurch Harbour Association

Photo credit: Mudeford RNLI/Rob King

28/09/2026

MUDEFORD RNLI RESCUES SWIMMER TRAPPED AGAINST ROCKS

On Wednesday evening (23 Sep), our crew were out on exercise when they were tasked at 6.14pm to a swimmer in difficulty at Barton on Sea.

The casualty had become trapped against rocks on a groyne, with the swell making it impossible for her to get out safely. Our Atlantic 85, Henrietta H, was quickly on scene by 6.18pm.

Two of our crew entered the water to help bring the casualty away from the rocks and through the surf. Once clear, a throw rope was deployed and the casualty was brought onto the lifeboat.

Extremely cold, she was then taken back to the station and warmed up. With no further treatment required the casualty was taken home. She was also advised on signs of secondary drowning as a precaution.

Lifeboat Operations Manager, Steve Doe said, 'This was a very serious incident and we are pleased the rescue had a positive outcome. Conditions around groynes and rocks can become extremely hazardous very quickly, particularly when there is any swell running. The casualty found herself in a situation where she simply couldn’t get clear safely.

'I’d like to thank the members of the public who raised the alarm so quickly. Their actions undoubtedly helped us respond rapidly and played a crucial part in what could have been a very different outcome. Quite simply, they helped save a life.'

The RNLI would remind anyone entering the water to be aware of local conditions, avoid swimming near structures such as groynes and rocks, and always have a means of calling for help. In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

For more information visit: rnli.org/water-safety

The Mudeford RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, has launched 74 times this year so far and launched 77 times in 2025.

Photo: Mudeford RNLI on exercise (Credit - Mudeford RNLI/Mike Newman)

31/08/2026

THANK YOU TERRY!

Today we say a heartfelt thank you to Terry Smith as he steps down from Mudeford RNLI after 9 years of dedicated volunteering.

Terry joined the station in 2017 as shore crew, before going on to qualify as Head Launcher and Tractor Driver, playing a vital role in launching our lifeboat.

In 2018, he took on the important position of Boathouse Manager, overseeing station maintenance and working closely with contractors to keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Terry has been a valued and dependable member of the team, always willing to step up and support the station in whatever way was needed.

Mudeford RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Steve Doe said, 'Terry has made a huge contribution to Mudeford Lifeboat Station over the past nine years. His commitment, particularly in his role as Boathouse Manager, has been invaluable in keeping the station operational and well maintained.

'He will be greatly missed by everyone here, and we wish him all the very best for the future as he spends more time with his family.'

As Terry moves away from the Mudeford area, we thank him for his service, dedication, and friendship, and wish him every happiness for the next chapter.

Thank you, Terry 💙

Photo: Terry (middle) receives a letter of thanks from the RNLI with joint Lifeboat Operations Managers, Tim Hewett (left) and Steve Doe (right) - Credit: Mudeford RNLI

03/08/2026

www.mudefordrnlifunday.com

31/07/2026

BUSY TIMES FOR MUDEFORD RNLI

Our crews have responded to a number of incidents over recent days, highlighting just how quickly situations can develop on the water.

Saturday 25 July - Launched at 6.49pm to reports of a broken down jet ski half a mile off Highcliffe Beach. On arrival, the casualty vessel was found to be a broken down RIB, which the crew began towing back towards Christchurch Harbour.

While returning, the crew spotted paddleboarders struggling to make it back to shore. The tow was safely paused while the casualties were assisted ashore, before the crew resumed the tow.

After returning to station, refuelling and washdown, the crew were tasked again to a female on an inflatable drifting out to sea off the Long Groyne. Thankfully, by the time the lifeboat arrived on scene at 8.46pm, the casualty had made it safely back to shore.

Sunday 26 July - Launched at 4.31pm to a broken down speedboat with three people on board. A jet ski that had gone to assist had also suffered engine failure.

The crew recovered all casualties onto the lifeboat and towed the speedboat back to Christchurch Harbour, before returning to recover the stranded jet ski. The lifeboat was back on service by 6.25pm.

Wednesday 29 July - Launched at 8.13pm to a lone canoeist off Hengistbury Head struggling to return to shore. The casualty was quickly located, recovered onto the lifeboat and safely returned to land. The crew were back on service by 8.55pm.

Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Steve Doe said:
‘It was a busy time for the Mudeford Lifeboat Station with several incidents in just a few days. We’re seeing a mix of preventable situations — from broken down craft to people being caught out on paddleboards and inflatables.

'If you’re heading out on the water, please make sure your vessel is well maintained, carry a means of calling for help, and let someone know your plans.

'Paddleboarders and those using inflatables should stay close to shore, be aware of offshore winds and tides, and always wear a buoyancy aid. A little preparation can make a big difference.’

Remember, if you see someone in difficulty on the water call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

For more information on how to stay safe on the water visit: www.rnli.org.uk/safety

Photo - the Mudeford RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, and crew return to Christchurch Harbour - Credit: Emma Paliotta Photography

30/07/2026

HELP US SAVE LIVES AT SEA!

Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Station are looking for boat and shore crew volunteers. Applications welcome from everyone. Find out more at RNLI.org/volunteer or contact Steve or Tim email: [email protected]

Please note boat and shore crew volunteers must live within 2 miles of the station.

All volunteers must be 18 or over.

19/07/2026

TWO SHOUTS FOR MUDEFORD RNLI THIS WEEKEND

Our volunteer crew were called out twice over the weekend to assist incidents along our coastline.

Friday night (17 July)

Launched at 11.10pm to a sailing yacht with two people on board aground off Hengistbury Head. The crew were on scene within minutes and stood by while the yacht safely refloated. Once clear, we went alongside to check the occupants – both were safe and well. With the yacht anchored, the crew returned to station.

Saturday evening (18 July)

Launched at 7.13pm to an injured jet skier near Avon Beach. Three crew went ashore to assist a female casualty who had been thrown from the jet ski and was struggling to breathe, with suspected rib injuries. The team provided casualty care and kept her comfortable until paramedics arrived. She was then taken to hospital for further treatment.

Mudeford RNLi volunteer Helm Andy Read said
'We would always urge anyone heading afloat to carry appropriate safety equipment, let someone know your plans, and ensure you have a reliable means of calling for help.

'For those using personal watercraft, wearing suitable protective gear and staying within your limits can make a real difference.'

Our Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H has now launched 48 times so far this year, following 77 launches in 2025.

Photo: Mudeford RNLI crew on a training exercise off Avon Beach with HM Coastguard (Credit: Mudeford RNLI/Tim Orr)

12/07/2026

LATE NIGHT SHOUT FOR MUDEFORD RNLI

Just after England kicked off against Norway last night, our volunteer lifeboat crew were paged at 10.16pm to a speedboat broken down around half a mile off Avon Beach.

Launching at 10.27pm, the crew began searching and eventually located the vessel south of Hengistbury Head—by this point being pushed further and further offshore towards Swanage by the wind and tide.

The crew quickly established a tow and brought the casualty safely back to Mudeford Lifeboat Station. Thankfully, the casualty was safe and well.

The casualty was wearing a lifejacket, but the boat had no lights and no provisions on board. The alarm was raised by mobile phone, but signal was poor.

Mudeford RNLI volunteer Helm Pete Dadds said:
'A mobile phone isn’t always reliable at sea. We’d strongly recommend carrying a VHF radio or a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)—they can make all the difference in helping us find you quickly.'

Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Steve Doe added:
“We are relieved the casualty was recovered safe and well but this was a situation that could have had a much more serious outcome.

'The boat was drifting further and further out to sea. Before heading out, ensure your boat is well maintained, you have provisions aboard, and a reliable means of communication. If you must go out at night, make sure your vessel has the appropriate lights.'

⚓ Check your kit. Check the conditions. Stay safe.

Photo: Mudeford RNLI's Atlantic 85, Henrietta H and Crew head out of Christhchurch Harbour (Credit: Mudeford RNLI/Robert King)