An Island swimming coach has been made the deputy president of the Royal Lifesaving Society’s (RLSS) Kent branch.

Phil Crowder, who is chairman of the Sheerness Swimming Club and Lifeguard Corps, was appointed at the AGM on Saturday, which means he will become the group’s president in 2015.

The honour has been given to the 53-year-old to recognise his long service and commitment to lifesaving in the county.

Candidates for deputy president are chosen in secret by a committee of past presidents and they have a year in the position before succeeding the president the following year.

Mr Crowder, of Galway Road, Sheerness, has been connected with the sport since birth, as his father Ron was one of the founders of the Sheerness club and was also president of the Kent RLSS in 2000.

He becomes the first son of a former president to take up the post.

“I’m delighted – it’s a great honour,” Mr Crowder said. “I was very surprised.”

Mr Crowder will spend his year as deputy visiting clubs all around the county to promote lifesaving and attending functions on behalf of the president, Tina Smith.