Frank Smith, Coxswain of Salcombe Lifeboat retires from the RNLI in July. His name, known to RNLI stations throughout the British Isles, is synonymous with all that is best in lifeboat tradition. In his youth, a keen interest in lifeboat rescues, coupled with the advantage that he often worked up a ladder gave him a head start over other young hopefuls whenever the maroons were fired. Later he gained intimate knowledge of the currents and anomalies of the local coast whilst 'crabbing' out of Salcombe and Dartmouth and the intricacies of boat building in Island Street.

Frank Smith

Crewman status was achieved in 1970; his first involvement in a serious incident was the rescue of five persons by breeches buoy from the Amelie Suzanne, aground off Cove Point, in the early hours of April 1st. 1972. He became emergency mechanic in 1974, served as mechanic with Coxswain Graham Griffiths and was appointed coxswain/mechanic in 1988 serving on the 'Baltic Exchange', various relief boats and the new' Baltic Exchange II'. The original 'Baltic Exchange', now renamed 'Baltic Air', made her reappearance at the first Salcombe Festival and for several years became Frank's runabout giving trips 'round the bay' before he acquired a share of 'Joseph Soar'. Of particular interest to NCI Prawle Point is the incident on 16th. December 1979 when the 'Heye P' was wrecked on Seagull Rock, Prawle Island. Frank was a crew member of the lifeboat taken under very hazardous conditions amongst rocks to facilitate the rescue of three casualties. In 1983 he survived capsize when seeking divers oft Start Point in forty foot waves and force 10 winds.

A bronze medal was awarded to Frank for remarkable seamanship when the 1200-ton coaster 'Janet C' lost power perilously near rocks at Start Point on January 8th. 1992. The first tow parted but a second was secured and held at extremity for three hours until a tug could reach the casualty. Frank's innate interest in the sea, motivation and meticulous attention to detail and renown as a gifted lifeboat man is acknowledged throughout the RNLI whose members recognise him as popular and respected friend. Frank has always kept a weather eye open in anticipation of where and when incidents may occur and his local knowledge has often helped rescue a casualty even when given positions were inaccurate. Few lifeboats have been better cared for or more immaculately maintained than those in his charge (particularly the brass). He has travelled extensively to naming ceremonies, volunteered for many trials and delivery passages. Salcombe has, not surprisingly, become a favoured port of call for passing lifeboats as 'Smee' and his wife Sabrina keep open house and a warm welcome for visiting crews. With so much experience and tales to recount, Frank has, from faltering beginnings, become a sought after public speaker in demand at Headquarters and at the Baltic Exchange.

The members of NCI Prawle Point, who see the lifeboat in action, recognise the exceptional service of Frank and his crew. We wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement. NCI joined three hundred other friends from all over the country to wish Frank well in his retirement after 31 years loyal service with the RNLI. Watchkeepers look forward to seeing him off the Point. Jenny Brown