TRIBUTES have been paid to a "kind" and "caring" Rhyl lifeboat crew member who would always "flash a smile".

Bob Baines - known as Tractor Bob - joined Rhyl RNLI in 2008. He first trained on Talus tractor, the launch vehicle for the station's old Mersey Class lifeboat 'Lil Cunningham', before going on to become head launcher. He became known for his catchphrase - "break carriage lad" [said in a Yorkshire accent].

Bob eventually went on to become a sea going crewmember on the All-Weather Lifeboat (Lil).

In a statement on their Facebook page, posted on Saturday evening (October 7), RNLI Rhyl said: "It is with great sadness the we announce the passing of RNLI Rhyl crew member Bob Baines.

"Bob joined the crew in 2008 and quickly became a valued member of the team. Bob first trained on the stations Talus tractor, the launch vehicle for our old Mersey Class lifeboat 'Lil Cunningham', he then went on to become a Head Launcher, where his catch phrase "break carriage lad" (in Yorkshire accent) came from. Bob eventually went on to become a sea going crewmember on the All-Weather Lifeboat (Lil).

"He came into his own during the transition from Mersey Class lifeboat to our new Shannon Class lifeboat where an all new launch and recover system, the SLRS arrived.

"We all know one of the proudest moments on the crew for Bob was when his son, Mathew, or "Little Bob" as he is called at station, joined the crew and RNLI Lifeguards."

The statement added: "Last Saturday evening, Bob was presented with RNLI Rhyl's David Benjamin Jones Memorial Award. The award is for a person or group who has made a major contribution to the station and its volunteers.

"The RNLI Rhyl Operations Committee who decide the awardee, believed Bobs courage and spirit over the last 12 months have gone above and beyond the factors to win this award."

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Martin Jones, RNLI Rhyl Coxswain, said: "Bob was one of the kindest, caring and most supportive person you could meet. No matter the situation Bob would flash you his smile and you'd feel better straight away.

"He was an extremely valued member of the team here at Rhyl, whether it be for his roles as a launch vehicle driver, head launcher or sea going crew, or just as a great friend who was always there for you.

"He will be greatly missed by everyone. Our thoughts are with Bob's family, and friends at this sad time".

The station and lifeboat's memorial flags remain at half mast as a sign of respect.