A LIFEBOAT volunteer has followed in his father’s footsteps after heading out to sea in a rescue bid.

RNLI volunteer Michael Bull launched for service to assist a stricken motorboat, and in doing so, followed his father’s footsteps in helping those in need at sea.

The crew of Harwich RNLI had launched its all-weather lifeboat Albert Brown at the request of the UK Coastguard to a nine-metre motorboat which was in trouble one mile off the coast of Felixstowe.

Assessing the situation at the scene, the crew decided the safest course of action was to tow the boat to nearby Shotley Marina.

Michael was one of seven new recruits who joined the volunteer rescue service in April.

Despite attending many incidents as shore crew – launching and recovering the lifeboats – this was his first service afloat.

Looking back on his first trip on the water, he said: “I joined Harwich RNLI wanting to do something for the community.

Read more: Father and son - Peter and Michael Bull who are both members of the RNLI based at Harwich

“I have spent several months studying on my own and being coached by experienced crew and finally received my certificate which enabled me to go afloat.

“When I was told to get my waterproofs and lifejacket on, I was excited, nervous and scared all at the same time, but the adrenaline kicks in and you just get on with doing what you have been taught.”

Michael’s father, Peter, took over as Harwich RNLI’s lifeboat operations manager in May having previously been on the crew for nearly 20 years.

“I am immensely proud of Michael, not only as a father, but also as the station’s manager,” he said.

“The dedication and commitment shown by all the new recruits responding to the pager at all hours and learning new skills has been amazing to witness, as well as seeing the support given by the experienced volunteers in the training of the new recruits.

“It’s a real team effort which is starting to bear fruit.

“Michael joins four other crew members with family ties to the station, who have either been encouraged by or encouraged family members to join the family here at Harwich, not only on the lifeboats, but in fundraising and education roles too.

“I feel this puts us in a great position to continue saving lives at sea, not only on the water, but even before someone reaches the water’s edge.”

If you are interested in volunteering at Harwich RNLI, contact peter_bull2@rnli.org.uk.