THERE is a new man at the helm at the Holyhead lifeboat station.

David Owens has been appointed as the new lifeboat operation manager (LOM).

He has taken over the role from outgoing LOM Hefin Francis, who has been in the role for just over a year.

David has been involved with Holyhead RNLI since 2013, initially as shore crew, and as deputy launching authority (DLA) for the past four years.

A voluntary role within the charity, the LOM oversees the general operation of the station and its lifeboats, including giving the authority for them to launch.

It also means liaising with the emergency services, and playing a part in leading changes and developments at the station.

David was born and bred in Holyhead. He is a police sergeant, with 27 years' service with North Wales Police.

Speaking of his new role, David said: "I cannot describe how honoured I feel to be a police officer and a lifeboat volunteer in my home town.

"To be in the company of the men and women of Holyhead and Anglesey who provide such vital service to our community is humbling.

I am so proud of them, and look forward to supporting them in every way I can."