Long Standing RNLI Volunteer recognised with British Empire Medal
One of the key people behind Skegness’ new state-of-the-art Shannon class lifeboat, has been recognised with a British Empire Medal for charitable services in the Queen’s 2016 Birthday Honours list.
Dedicated Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) volunteer April Grunnill has been an integral part of fundraising at Skegness Lifeboat Station. She has played a central role in raising the money for a new Shannon Class Lifeboat that will arrive on station in 2016. Those associated with the lifeboat and the wider community at Skegness feel that without April’s generosity and commitment the new boat would not have been affordable.
Events held at the station have proved a success for many years thanks mainly to April’s energy and drive.
April, said: 'It is such an honour to receive this award. The RNLI does fantastic work and has always been close to my family’s heart. I am privileged to be part of the team.'
April has been the face of the RNLI in Skegness, not just through her fundraising but by taking care of the crew at the station, engaging with the local community and supporting the work of the organisation.
Nothing is too much effort for April and she can often be found in the town talking to shop owners about the RNLI, and emptying the many collection boxes that she has successfully placed in the community.
The RNLI exists to save lives at sea and April’s efforts have been invaluable in not only raising much needed funds to support the work of the organisation but also promoting the charity. She has inspired thousands of people to get involved and support the RNLI through her passion for the charity, encouraging others to give money and time in support of the lifeboats.
Notes to editor
- Photo credit: RNLI Skegness
For more information please contact the RNLI Press Office on tel: 01202 336789
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.
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