Port Talbot RNLI volunteer receives excellence in volunteering award

The award was given in recognition of Spencer’s outstanding contribution to the RNLI. The award was presented by the Lifeboat Operations Manager Clive Morris on behalf of the RNLI’s CEO Peter Sparkes. The award was given in recognition of Spencer's compassion and support of a fellow crew member and their family during what has been a particularly difficult time. His kindness has demonstrated the strength of Port Talbot Lifeboat Station’s one crew ethos.

Back on the 24 August 2025, Spencer and three close friends Steven Morgan, Jack Phillips and Craig Wilyeo set out to take on the infamous challenge of swimming the 7.5 miles across the bay from Mumbles to Port Talbot. Their purpose was to show support to a fellow crew member and their family. It wasn’t just about raising money, it was about something more meaningful – helping others, camaraderie and resilience.

When asked about the day Spencer said:

‘Sea conditions started out very challenging, early in the morning the sea was choppy and a significant wind had picked up. Around halfway, strong currents hit us from the River Neath, it was like swimming uphill. Then it was as if the weather gods were watching over us and the weather changed and conditions became favourable.

‘I am delighted to have completed this legendary swim and receiving this award is a massive honour. I am so proud to have received it.’

Spencer goes on to say that this event was truly a team effort:

‘I would like to thank Clive Morris and the crew for their support in making this event happen. Thanks also to JD Marine for the loan of their boat (RIB), to Helm Dai Jones and his second in command, my wife Rea, as well as Kevin and the Aberavon Kayak and Canoe Club. Also to Ceri Jeffreys for providing safety cover from onboard the Lady Tess and to Janice and co for organising a feast following the swim. This couldn’t have been done without them. I also must not forget Scott Cuthbertson, for his help on keeping me on course from his kayak.’

All of the volunteer crew at Port Talbot Lifeboat Station congratulate Spencer on his award and look forward to supporting him again next year as he plans to take on the challenge for a second time.

Congratulations Spencer

Notes to editor:

The RNLI is a registered charity that saves lives at sea. It provides, on call, a 24-hour lifeboat search and rescue service to 100 miles out from the coast of the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland and a beach lifeguard service on over 200 beaches in England and Wales. If you would like more information on fundraising ideas to help raise much needed funds for the RNLI please visit our website for more details or pop into your local station to discuss any fundraising ideas that you may have.

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For more information please contact Port Talbot RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Kirstee David on [email protected] or Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728 315.

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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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