RNLI Swanage has flown its flag half-mast after a former crew member who helped save more than 200 lives died.

The station flew its flag half mast on February 15 after one its former crew members sadly passed. 

Adrian Bird, nicknamed Cookie, was involved with the Swanage team for 13 and a half years and help helm boats to save 232 lives. 

RNLI Swanage coxswain, Dave Turnbull said: "I started in 1992 and so served a few years with Cookie until he left in 1999. 

"He was a crew member on both our lifeboats and had been allocated to the inshore lifeboat for a trial in summer 1993. He was the helm of the boat and so was one of the first helms I worked with." 

Dave described Cookie as an experienced helm that was able to control the new inshore lifeboats despite no one having much experience with the boats. 

Dave said: "It was a collaborative learning experience but he grasped it with both hands and we went on from there. 

"He left because of his own personal work as he was a lorry driver, but he had very good availability until then." 

Moving to progress his career as a lorry driver, Adrian's connections to the RNLI briefly ended before his son became involved. 

Adrian's son Darren Bird followed his Dad's path, offering his services to the RNLI while also working as a lorry driver. 

Dave said: "His son Darren has recently left us as well because the same thing happened as he is a lorry driver as well.

"I know he was very proud that Darren had joined us. Adrian was full of energy, had lots of stories and was always a good laugh.

"He could turn the mood around if things were getting sombre and was a useful guy to have a around."

The Swanage station shared the sad news of Adrian's passing on Facebook which saw locals leaving notes of condolences and sharing memories of him. 

Swanage Lifeboat Station said: "Our flag is flying at half-mast in memory of former crew member 'Cookie' Bird.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends."