Humber RNLI Coxswain and fundraiser recognised in Queen's New Year's Honours

Humber lifeboat station’s Coxswain David Steenvoorden, a RNLI crew member for over 30 years, has been awarded an MBE. David started as a volunteer at Cleethorpes lifeboat station in 1987 before joining the Humber crew three years later. He has now served there for over 26 years.

Over the years, David has been commended for his part in a number of significant rescues, the most notable of which being a Bronze Medal for gallantry. This award was in recognition of his exemplary courage, determination and fine seamanship displayed when the lifeboat crew rescued five canoeists in the Humber Estuary on 30 July 1989. They then went on to assist the yacht Serenus in a north-north-westerly storm, confused seas and driving rain.

David said: 'I am walking around two feet off the ground today - I am gobsmacked and overwhelmed. You just go about your business in you job and then this pops up and I am so proud.I always say that a Coxswain is only as good as their crew so this is real recognition for the whole of our crew.'

Humber Lifeboat Station was also the inspiration for a highly regarded RNLI fundraiser who has been awarded a BEM. For over 37 years Richard Marriott, one of the most dedicated volunteer fundraisers within the charity, has raised close to £250,000.

Richard said; ‘It’s a great honour – totally unexpected and quite humbling. After 37 years of fundraising, it’s just magical and unbelievable to receive an award. I’m so proud.’

His passion for the RNLI was ignited when he first visited Humber Lifeboat Station. Being so impressed by the achievements of the lifeboat crew, he decided to do a sponsored slim. The satisfaction he got from his first fundraiser has never left him and he has worked tirelessly ever since.

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.'

Notes to editors:

The attached pictures show:

- David Steenvoorden (credit Nigel Millard)

- Richard Marriott (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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