Longstanding Oban Lifeboat volunteer recognised with top RNLI award

Billy first joined the RNLI as a volunteer at Oban Lifeboat station in 1975, just a few years after the station itself was founded in 1972.

At the time the station would have been operating it’s first lifeboat, a 18’ McLachlan inshore lifeboat providing only seasonal cover during the summer months. The first all-weather lifeboat arrived on scene in 1978, quickly followed by a newer model, before our current Trent class Mora Edith MacDonald was allocated in 1997.

Starting off as a crew member, Billy progressed through the ranks to become an Emergency Mechanic, followed by Deputy Coxswain and finally 2nd Coxswain. He then took on the station’s Lifeboat Operations Manager role.

Our Chairman Mike Robertson commented on Billy’s time with the station, 'I think that word “fun” is important, both about the huge contribution Billy has made to the station over the years, and to other crew members and volunteers taking part in the lifeboat family at Oban.

'Billy has always been very much involved in the likes of station BBQsBilly has always been very much involved in the likes of station BBQs, which used to include “Malt&Salt” events at the distillery, raft races, and latterly Open Day events.  As the current station Lifeboat Operations Manager Billy gives a huge amount of voluntary time and work on behalf of the station. His award of the RNLI gold medal is richly deserved.'

During his time he also received the Thanks of the Institution on Vellum.

The prestigious gold badge award, presented at the RNLI’s award ceremony in Perth, recognises Billy’s significant contribution and dedication to the charity over the years. He remains an integral part of the lifeboat family. We'd like to say a big congratulations, and thank you from everyone at the station.

RNLI media contacts

Leonie Woolf, Oban Lifeboat Deputy Press Officer Tel: 07818 861517/ 01631 569735 Email: [email protected]

Richard Smith, Public Relations Manager Scotland on 01738 642956, 07786 668903 or [email protected]

Henry Weaver, RNLI Press Officer for Scotland, 01738 642946, 07771 943026, [email protected]

RNLI Public Relations on 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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