A PORTISHEAD teenager has become the third generation of her family to qualify as a member of the town’s lifeboat crew.

After two years of training Samantha Herbert, who follows in her father and her grandfather’s footsteps, was presented with her official crew sweatshirt by John McCorquodale, chairman of the Portishead and Bristol Lifeboat Trust.

Samantha’s family has been part of the lifeboat crew for more than 35 years. Her grandfather, Ray Herbert, was one of the founder members of the Portishead lifeboat and her dad Dave is coxswain.

Sam became a cadet at the age of 16 and has qualified just before her 18th birthday.

Mr McCorquodale added: “It is heartwarming to see Samantha continue a tradition of lifeboat service started by her grandfather Ray and carried on by her father David.

“That she has been given this level of responsibility at such a young age is a testament to her hard work and drive to succeed.

“Samantha is to be congratulated on her achievement, I think it is remarkable that someone may find themselves being plucked from a treacherous situation in foul weather by a young lady who has only just finished school. “

Sam is now on call 24 hours a day 365 days of the year along with the other 29 operational members. She says she is looking forward to focusing on her skills and moving them to an advanced level as a crew member.