Coxswain Allen Frary to retire

Mon 26 Feb 2018

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Allen has served as a member of the Wells lifeboat crew for 42 years and has been coxswain/mechanic for 21 years. He has received numerous commendations, including one for the rescue of the Dutch sailing vessel Albatros off Bob Hall's Sands and a velum award for rescuing a yacht caught on Wells Bar inheavy weather. Thanks in no small part to Allen's work, the station has sufficient well-trained personnel to cover his duties until his replacement is appointed. This was recently put to the test when he suffered a serious injury to his back and was confined to quarters for 18 weeks. Allen has made a full recovery and is looking forward to a long and active retirement.

The crew and volunteers thanked him for his service and wished him all the best for a happy retirement.

Operations Manager Chris Hardy said, "Nothing was ever too difficult for Allen. Through his time spent at sea, he can turn his hand to anything. It has been widely recognised within the RNLI, that how he maintained our Mersey class Lifeboat in such a pristine condition, set the standard which was the model for other Lifeboat Stations to follow. He is an excellent seafarer, leader of men, a great ambassador for the Institution and a natural public speaker. It has been a real privilege to work with him and I wish him every happiness in retirement."

Chairman Peter Rainsford said, "In the various roles that I have undertaken at Wells Lifeboat my work has been made easier and more enjoyable by Allen's guidance and support. He has set a gold standard for the Coxswain/Mechanic's job and has earned great respect around the coast not only for himself but also for the RNLI Wells Lifeboat Station."

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