LYME REGIS RNLI lifeboat has a new man at the helm after a crew member passed a 'gruelling' assessment.

Architectural designer, Seb Cope, has achieved the role of helm following a one hour written test and a two hour assessment of his skills at sea.

The 38-year-old joined the RNLI five years ago and is now one of seven helms based at the town’s lifeboat station on the Cobb.

Mr Cope, who became a sea-going crew member just one year after joining, was tested on several scenarios at sea including anchoring, veering and a search for two missing kayakers.

Mr Cope said:” I am delighted to have fulfilled an ambition I have had ever since I joined the crew.

He added:” The assessment was pretty gruelling particularly after a day at work, but I now look forward to the opportunity to teach and train others.”

Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager Nick Marks said: “Congratulations to Seb. He has worked hard over the last couple of years and has not been helped by the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. He is stepping up at just the right time as we head into the busy summer period.”