THREE new volunteers have joined the management team of the RNLI lifeboat operation in Lyme Regis.

Charles Watton 63, is the new chairman of the Lifeboat management group, and Nick Marks, 60, and Adrian Ragbourne, 47, have been appointed deputy launching authorities (DLAs) and as such are the first point of contact for coastguards when they request a launch of the lifeboat.

Mr Watton, a former finance director of the RNLI, will be chairing management group meetings and takes over from local GP Dr Forbes Watson, who continues as the Lyme Regis RNLI medical adviser.

Mr Marks, a retired Royal Navy captain is a yachtmaster, dinghy sailor and proud owner of a narrowboat.

He took charge of his first lifeboat ‘shout’ last weekend.

During a 29-year career with the navy he served on a number of ships including HMS Bulwark and the Ark Royal. Married to Anne, with two grown up children, they have lived in Lyme Regis for five years.

He said: “I retired from industry last year and I wanted to have a charitable focus and I have always been aware of the RNLI and the good work it did.

“I felt I could make some contribution. I have had my first duty weekend and it has been quite exciting.

“We have had two shouts, both not particularly serious but nevertheless the boat was launched and we did assist.

“So far so good.”

Mr Ragbourne, a self- employed electrician, is a former owner of a five-metre sport boat.

He said: “As father of a little girl I became increasingly aware of the dangers the sea holds and decided to give up my boating hobby. However, it made me think about the RNLI and the work it does in saving lives at sea.”

Mr Ragbourne, is married to Alison and they live in Uplyme with their three children.

He is a governor of Charmouth Primary School and also works with the Lyme Regis Development Trust.