First ever all-female RNLI crew callout on the Thames

The RNLI crew at Teddington Lifeboat Station received a memorable callout near the Teddington footbridge last month. It was the first callout for newly qualified helm, Samantha Armatage, who was joined by crew members Nicola Peters and Gianna Saccomani, making this the first all-female crew callout for Teddington RNLI.

The volunteer crew were called to an unattended rowing boat with the engine still running.

Armatage says: “I’m delighted to have completed my first ever shout as helm after recently passing out.”

Teddington lifeboat operations manager, Matt Allchurch says: “We believe this was the first-ever all-female crew shout on the Thames, which is something we’re incredibly proud of and an exciting first shout as helm for Samantha.”

The station’s D-class lifeboat was launched following reports of an empty rowing boat with a small engine that was in reverse and still running. The tide was rising, and the river flow was very strong so the crew were concerned that the vessel may sink as its mooring was unsuitable.

Following an inspection of the vessel, they were no personal effects or casualties found nearby, raising concerns that the boat owner may be in difficulty. Shortly after Teddington’s second lifeboat was launched to start a search, the boat owner was found safe and well.

The lifeboat was then returned to the station and prepared for her next launch.

Armatage concludes: “We are so pleased that this callout had a happy ending, but we urge boat owners to ensure their moorings are always safe and to always check the tide times and weather forecast before heading out.

“If you ever see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Recently, St Davids RNLI volunteer, Emma Lockett, revealed that she was inspired to join after seeing an all-female RNLI crew image on International Women’s Day 2019.

“I remember looking at my phone and seeing a picture of female lifeboat crew members,” says Lockett. “That inspired me to go down to the station and ask if I could join. I was ready for a new challenge, where I could help keep human lives safe. And I knew that the RNLI and its supporters are the kind of people who will do all they can to give the crews what they need.”