Barmouth RNLI’s long-serving lifeboat operational manager David Baily has retired from the role after six years.

Prior to taking on the position in 2013, David was deputy launch authority for a number of years.

Dedicated to the sea, David joined the Merchant Navy in 1966 as an apprentice and retired from the sea as Master Mariner in 2009.

David has a passion for sailing, with a yacht in Greece where he holidays several times a year with his wife Linda.

Taking over as Barmouth station’s new lifeboat operational manager is former mayor and local business man Mark James.

Mark has been with Barmouth RNLI since 2013 in the role as deputy launch authority, deputising for David on occasion and therefore creating a seamless transition within the station.

Mark has lived in Barmouth for 53 years and is still a member of the town council and sits on Barmouth harbour consultative committee as a member of the RNLI.

Speaking about his new position, Mark said: “I am honoured to take on the role of LOM and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead.”

The role, which is voluntary, involves overseeing the general operation of the lifeboats and the station, also giving authority for the boats to launch and liaising with other emergency services as necessary.

The position also plays a key role in the changes and developments of a lifeboat station.