A LIFEBOAT man who led his crew through five-metre high crashing waves in the search for a missing teen is this week’s local hero.

Coxswain Paul Legendre, based at the Newhaven Lifeboat Station, led the crew of seven in storm force winds for six hours as they searched for a 14-year-old boy who had been washed out to sea in October last year.

The Severn class all-weather lifeboat Volunteer Spirit was launched after Dylan Alkins was swept away at West Beach, Newhaven.

Waves crashed over the stern, smashing the handrail and pushing water into the lifeboat’s engine room, as the crew struggled to stay on their feet. Despite Mr Legendre and his team’s best efforts, they could not find the missing teen.

But Mr Legendre is set to be honoured once again for his bravery and leadership in awful conditions.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has selected Mr Legendre to receive The Lady Swaythling Trophy for his outstanding seamanship and perseverance.

Commodore Malcolm Williams, the society’s chief executive, said: “Despite the tragic end to this story, Legendre’s exceptional act of perseverance and seamanship was second to none.

“Despite technological advances we still rely on the bravery of rescue crews and individuals to look after those in danger around our coast.

“We are proud to be able to reward the gallantry of those who risk their lives for the safety of others.”

The award will be presented by the society’s patron, HRH The Princess Royal, at a ceremony on Tuesday at Fishmongers’ Hall in London.

Mr Legendre was a volunteer with Newhaven RNLI for more than 30 years before becoming a full-time coxswain two years ago.

Earlier this year the coxswain also received one of the RNLI’s highest accolades – the Thanks of the Institution Inscribed on Vellum.

George Rawlinson, RNLI operations director, said: “I know first-hand how much he was affected by this incident and am confident he did everything humanly possible to lead his crew in searching for Dylan that day.”