A FATHER who died last year aged just 43 after losing his battle with cancer has left a life-saving legacy.

A new training mannequin has been bought by Porthdinllaen RNLI Crew, after donations were received in memory of Chris Dobson from Nefyn.

The death of Chris, who died in March last year, rocked the local community and is well remembered for his “infectious smile” and love of the sea.

Chris’ family – his wife Brenda and children Tomos and Beca – visited Porthdinllaen RNLI station recently to hand over the mannequin to volunteer lifeboat crew.

The purchase of the mannequin which has been named ‘Cook’ by Tomos and Beca, was made possible after several fund-raising evenings by his family which benefitted local charities.

Money raised in Chris’ memory has gone towards a new training mannequin which will enable the lifeboat crew to practice man overboard and recovery procedures as it replicates the weight and movement of and unconscious patient in the water.

They will also be able to deploy the mannequin while on exercise to gain more of an insight into the effect of wind and drift from the tidal stream on a person in the water and practice man overboard and recovery procedures.

Brenda Dobson said: “Chris was dedicated to his family, as a husband, father, son and brother, he also had a special love for the sea and local beach.

“Losing Chris was a huge blow for us and as family we treasure our memories of the happy times we spent at the beach. We are glad to be able to assist a worthy cause as the RNLI in Chris’ memory.”

Dylan Thomas, on behalf of Porthdinllaen Lifeboat Station, added: “Chris was a local lad and was known personally to the crew.

“He had for a number of years assisted Michael Jones from Nefyn as a crew member on board the fishing boat Integrity.

“Chris with his infectious smile, would manage to bring a smile to your face on any dull day.

“Sadly he lost his battle with cancer in March 2017 but will always be remembered.

“We are ever so grateful to Brenda and Chris’ family for the donation which has made it possible to purchase such a valuable training equipment.”

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