A newly trained Southend RNLI volunteer has completed his first rescue since joining the charity earlier this year.
Former police officer Paul Morris was part of the Southend's RNLI crew called to reports of a person in distress near Canvey on Sunday morning.
The volunteer team launched their Atlantic 85 lifeboat Julia & Angus Wright in strong winds and carried out a shoreline search around Holehaven Creek, working alongside Canvey and Southend Coastguard rescue teams.
After an hour of searching, Coastguard crews located the missing person safely onshore.
The lifeboat was stood down and returned to station shortly after midday.
For Paul, who joined the RNLI in January after leaving the police to start his own business, the shout marked his first real-life rescue since completing water safety training at Poole RNLI College last month.
Volunteer Helm Jonathan Charnock praised the trainee’s composure and teamwork.
He said: "Conditions were freshening up when leaving the station, the call had a positive outcome but could have changed significantly quickly, as such we needed a quick and swift response.
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"Paul did fantastic on his first call out.
"Swapping the boys in blue for yellow wellies, Paul was an integral part of our response and took on anything that got thrown at him.
"I remember fondly even after 13 years the excitement and adrenaline that happens when getting out on the first shout.
"It was a pleasure to have him on board today and pleased to have shared that moment again. Well done Paul."
Paul said the RNLI’s training had given him the confidence to handle his first emergency.
He added: "The RNLI training has been brilliant! I feel that it has fully prepared me for whatever comes my way.
"It has given me confidence when on a shout and trust in the equipment and fellow volunteers.
"I feel excited and proud to be helping those who are in need.
"I would say to anyone thinking about volunteering for the RNLI, go for it.
"It’s so fulfilling helping others that are most in need. Its great being part of the team.
"If you think you might be able to help in some way, join us and become a RNLI lifesaver."
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