MICHAEL Dowden has become the youngest member of the Margate RNLI crew...at the age of just 17.

He joined the team on his 17th birthday and is thoroughly enjoying the challenge of working with the charity and taking part in its structured training programme.

He said: "I was a lifeguard on the beach for two years but it was the RNLI crewthat was my goal. I joined as soon as I was able, on my birthday on June 13. I am the youngest person to join Margate RNLI and must be one of the youngest in the UK too.

"I was recommended by a friend of our family who is a crew member. You have to be invited to join or recommended."

Michael, a sixth form student at Chatham House Grammar School, Ramsgate, takes part in weekly training exercises and recently completed his first RNLI qualification in seamanship.

He is now eagerly waiting to take part in a four-day inshore lifeboat training course at the charity’s HQ in Poole, Dorset, in March.

He added: "I work on a round the clock beeper system and report to the lifeboat station at Margate harbour whenever there is a ‘shout’.

"I was involved in a call out when I was on training to a jet skier in trouble off the coast but my work at the moment is generally assisting with the launch of the craft and with operation details for the outgoing crew.

"The lifeboat team are a great bunch to work with and have been so welcoming, supportive and enthusiastic. It is a challenging role but I love every minute of it."

Michael plans to study mechanical engineering at a seaside university when he leaves Chatham House so he can continue his lifeboat work.

Head teacher John Mathews said: "The RNLI play a critical role in water safety around the UK. We wish Michael every success in his ambition to work with such a worthwhile organisation."