Scarborough lifeboat coxswain hits back at RNLI sacking

The RNLI said it was "crucial" volunteers complied with safety and operational standards

A lifeboat coxswain dismissed after leading an "unauthorised" launch has hit back at the RNLI, claiming he was led "like a lamb to the slaughter".

Tom Clark, who has served with the lifeboat service for 34 years, was "permanently stood down" after he held a training exercise in Scarborough without permission.

In a Facebook post, Mr Clark said the reason for his dismissal was "rubbish".

The RNLI said it was "crucial" volunteers complied with safety rules.

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Mr Clark said the exercise, held for the benefit of two trainee coxswains on 29 October, had the "blessing and clearance" of the lifeboat operations manager and several others.

His son and an RNLI member accompanied the crew on the trip after the "last-minute" absence of two crew members, he said.

'Lamb to slaughter'

He disputes an accusation the conditions at sea were "too rough" and expressed concern other crew members would be sacked if they walked out in support of him.

The lifeboat service said it was not acceptable that Scarborough's all-weather lifeboat had been taken out under the circumstances, with evidence heard during an investigation "contributing to the decision".

Mr Clark continued: "I was led like a lamb to the slaughter, on my own, to interviews, hearings and meetings, all the way down their disciplinary route until they found something to 'get' me on.

"In the end, they said I was stood down because I didn't show enough contrition. That is rubbish."

An RNLI spokeswoman said: "We recognise the long service dedicated to the charity, however the RNLI expects its crew members to behave professionally - not just in terms of maritime expertise, but also in behaviour and respect for others - and to carry out their role with due care and diligence at all times.

"A major breach of policy can cause unnecessary risk to life and, therefore, cannot be ignored."

The crew in Scarborough continued to work with the RNLI and all lifeboats remained in service, she added.