Today the RNLI launched its new Lifeboat Training Experience with the help of record-breaking round the world yachtswoman Dee Caffari MBE.

The RNLI explained that there is a vital need for training, as 1-in-10 men and women who are recruited by the charity have no nautical or sailing background. Dee was the first to try out the brand new lifeboat simulator, after christening the new scheme ‘train one, save many’ with a bottle of champagne.

The simulator re-creates the experience of a rescue as witnessed through the eyes of a volunteer crewmember. Dee commented: “Having just returned from a thousand mile qualifying sail for the Transat Jacques Vabre Race in November, I for one understand how vital training is and the importance of learning new skills and developing experience. So I am proud to support the RNLI’s Train one, save many campaign. I hope the new lifeboat training experience simulator will inspire visitors to learn more about the lifesaving work of?volunteer lifeboat crews and perhaps support the campaign too.”