Dedicated RNLI volunteers from Wales recognised in Queen’s New Year’s Honours
Two RNLI volunteers from Wales are among those recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours announced today (Friday 29 December).
David (Dai) Jenkins, from Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station, has dedicated over 55 years to the RNLI, and today has been awarded an MBE. Dai has been a truly remarkable member of the Aberystwyth RNLI community. His commitment to the RNLI began as a crew member at Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station, however over the years he has taken on a variety volunteer roles including, Lifeboat Operations Manager. For the last 17 years his time has been spent as a dedicated fundraiser and treasurer.
On receiving the news of his award Dai said, ‘When I got the letter, I was totally and utterly amazed – why me? Everything I’ve done is because I’m interested in things, and not for any award.’
William Hopkins, President of Port Talbot Lifeboat Station has been recognised with an MBE for his services to the community, particularly maritime safety and children, in South Wales. Since he became President of Port Talbot Lifeboat Station in 1990, he has overseen the fundraising for, and arrival of, three new lifeboats.
William said of the award, ‘It’s an immense honour. The work I’ve done is for the community, not for recognition. There are so many who deserve an award for what they do. All I’ve done for the schools, lifeboats and crime prevention – it’s all for the community, it’s where we live.’
RNLI Chief Executive Paul Boissier said, ‘The RNLI depends on the commitment, skill and courage of its volunteers, staff and fundraisers – and those that have been named in this year’s New Year Honours epitomise those qualities. I’m delighted that these wonderful and well-deserving people have been recognised.’
The attached picture shows:
- Dai Jenkins from Aberystwyth (credit RNLI)
For more information please contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or [email protected].
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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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