The RNLI in Lyme Regis has appointed a new operations manager.

Mark Colley, a 58-year-old carpenter, has been appointed to the role and will take over from Nick Marks.

Mr Marks, 69, held the position for seven years before he retired in line with the RNLI’s policy on age.

Mr Marks officially handed over his role at the lifeboat crew’s latest training session.

Mr Colley initially retired from his role as a lifeboat helm at the age of 55.

He became Deputy Launching Authority (DLA) in February last year and has been a crew member for 23 years.

He said: “It’s a new challenge and one that I relish. It’s the pinnacle role at the lifeboat station and I am delighted to have reached it.

"I have a hard act to follow. Nick Marks has been running a very successful station for seven years.”

Mr Marks wished his successor luck on his new role and he said: “Whilst I am sorry that I now have to retire from an operational role with the Lyme Regis lifeboat, I am delighted that the RNLI has appointed Mark Colley as my successor.

"Mark has a wealth of experience gained from more than 20 years on the crew.”

Mr Marks intends to continue working with the RNLI and volunteer as the Water Safety Officer for the Lyme Regis area.

He said: “In this role I will be leading our team of Water Safety volunteers to give advice to children and adults on the inherent dangers of the sea and help them enjoy their coastal activities in the safest possible manner.”

Speaking when his retirement was announced, Mr Marks said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my stint and am only stepping down to make way for someone a bit younger.

“During my time we have seen many changes in the way the RNLI expects the station to be run and how the crew is trained.

“But what has not changed is the selfless dedication of our volunteer crew and their willingness to answer the call at any time of night or day and in any weather.”