Station’s pride as Longhope volunteer is recognised for 10 years of service

Raised on Hoy, Callum developed an interest in the lifeboat from an early age. As a child, he had the opportunity to go out on the lifeboat with his school, and would regularly see the volunteer crew responding to emergency callouts. These experiences inspired him to volunteer as part of the crew himself, combining his interest in the lifeboat with a desire to give something back to his local community.

Callum has a strong family connection to the RNLI. His great-uncle, the late Angus Heddle, was a much-respected member of the island community who served the RNLI for many years as the launch and recovery winch driver when the Longhope lifeboat was stationed at Brims. Angus was himself awarded the Royal Society Certificate for lifesaving at sea. By volunteering as a member of the crew and continuing his commitment to the RNLI, Callum is proudly following in his great-uncle's footsteps.

Already a fully qualified volunteer crew member, Callum works as a mechanic aboard the Hoy Head, the ferry serving the island. He is now putting his professional skills and experience to good use as a volunteer trainee mechanic with Longhope RNLI, developing the additional specialist knowledge needed to help maintain the lifeboat's operational readiness.

RNLI Service Awards recognise the dedication and invaluable contribution of volunteers who give their time to support the charity's lifesaving work. Lifeboat crew members undertake regular training and must be ready to respond to emergencies at any time, often leaving their work, homes and families when their pagers sound. Callum was presented with his award by Longhope RNLI Coxswain Scott Johnston.

Reflecting on his award, Callum said with typical humour, ‘I'm chuffed to receive this award and looking forward to the next ninety years of volunteering with the RNLI.’

Coxswain Scott Johnston said, ‘It was a real pleasure, and a proud moment for me, to present Callum with his 10-year Service Award. Callum has shown huge dedication and commitment to the lifeboat station over the years, and his willingness to give up his time to help others is something we greatly value.

Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, and without people like Callum, who give their time so generously, we couldn't continue our lifesaving work. We're very fortunate to have him as part of our crew, and I look forward to seeing him continue to develop in his role as volunteer trainee mechanic.’

Callum's 10 years of service reflect both his personal commitment to the RNLI and a family tradition of helping others at sea. Everyone at Longhope RNLI would like to congratulate him on reaching this milestone and thank him for his continued dedication to the station and the community it serves.

Like Callum, many of our volunteers first became involved with the RNLI through a desire to help others and give something back to their community. Have you ever thought about joining them? There are lots of ways to get involved, both at sea and ashore, with opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Whatever your skills or interests, there's a place for you in the RNLI family. If you fancy finding out more, why not pop into Longhope Lifeboat Station for a friendly chat about the opportunities available? The kettle is always on, and we'd be delighted to see you!

Notes to editors

Longhope lifeboat station has been operating since 1874. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: Longhope Lifeboat Station (rnli.org)

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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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