Volunteer Alan Blair to be new Dunbar RNLI technician

Alan Blair has been a regular on callouts off the county’s coastline for 22 years.

Next month, he will become responsible for maintaining the engines and equipment on the town’s all-weather and in-shore lifeboats, as well as launching vehicles and gear, across two sites.

New dad Alan, whose wife Lisa recently gave birth to daughter Rosie, leaves his position as a CNC metal engraver in Haddington to take up his new post on November 4.

He will continue as a crew member and helm on the D-class in-shore lifeboat.

He said: “I am really pleased to become the station’s new full-time technician and am looking forward to getting started.”

The 41-year-old replaces Phoebe Douglas, Scotland’s first full-time female mechanic, who is leaving Dunbar to pursue a new challenge.

READ MORE: Dunbar: Mechanic Phoebe Douglas makes lifeboat history

Ian Wilson, Dunbar RNLI lifeboat operations manager, wished him well in the role.

He said: “We are delighted Alan is our new technician.

“Alan has served on the crew with distinction for 22 years and, once fully trained, will maintain our boats, as well as the tractor for the inshore lifeboat at Dunbar and the Land Rover and launching davit at Torness Power Station, where our all-weather Trent class is moored.

“It will be quite a challenge but one he well relish. Congratulations, Alan!”

Mechanical engineering graduate Phoebe took on the role earlier this year, having previously worked for the face-to-face team raising funds for the charity that saves lives at sea.

Alan Blair is currently a helm on the inshore lifeboat. (Image: Dunbar RNLI)

At the time, she described it as “an ideal job” and said: “I’ve always wanted to work on boats and wanted a job where I could be outside and hands-on practical rather than being in an office.”

Ian wished Phoebe well on her next adventure.

He said: “We are sad to be losing Phoebe and she leaves with our very best wishes as she heads off on her travels with dog Blue, a popular presence around the station.

“We hope they have many exciting adventures together.”

Phoebe, who made history when she was appointed station mechanic a year ago, said: “I've had an amazing time on the crew and am extremely grateful for everything everyone has done to make my move into Dunbar and the job as easy as possible.

“It’s been a great experience; however, I'm leaving for a new adventure.”