I saved two people on my first shift as RNLI Tynemouth's new crew leader
Tynemouth RNLI Station has announced the site’s new full-time coxswain.
Vincenzo Stifanelli, better known as Enzo, has volunteered with Tynemouth RNLI for over 10 years.
He takes over the role this month, succeeding Sam Clow, who steps down after three years of service to the station and the wider Tynemouth area.
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A familiar face around the area, Enzo first joined Tynemouth RNLI in 2015.
Over the last decade, he has built up extensive experience at sea, working at Humber lifeboat as a Navigator and completing the RNLI’s comprehensive Coxswain Afloat Mechanic training programme in 2025.
As coxswain, Enzo will lead the volunteer lifeboat crew during callouts, making critical decisions at sea and ensuring everyone returns safely home. The role also includes supporting and mentoring crew members and helping maintain the strong sense of teamwork at the station.
Speaking about the new role, Enzo said: “Tynemouth RNLI has always felt like a family to me. We’re all volunteers, and we all live and work in this community, so every callout is personal.
“I’m incredibly proud to take on the role of coxswain and to continue serving the people who use our coastline, alongside such a dedicated crew.”
Enzo started as full time coxswain at Tynemouth on New Year’s Day, undertaking his first callout on Sunday, January 4 where his team helped two people who had fallen overboard from a fishing vessel.