A proud day for Torbay as RNLI Coxswain collects OBE from HRH Prince William
The Coxswain of Torbay RNLI, Mark Criddle, has today received his OBE from HRH Prince William, Duke of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace.
The OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) was announced in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list earlier this year, for Mark’s enduring service to Maritime Safety. A highly regarded and well respected leader, Mark has given almost 30 years of unwavering support to the RNLI, holding various roles including mechanic and trainer, and taking on the role of Coxswain for RNLI Torbay in 2002. He has launched the lifeboat on service more than 415 times since taking on the role, and is the RNLI’s most decorated serving Coxswain.
On learning of the award back in June, Mark thanked his family and the RNLI volunteer team, saying:
‘You are only as good as the people you surround yourself with, and I am extremely lucky to have such a supportive family and outstanding crew to serve alongside at Torbay RNLI.’
This evening, after the award ceremony in London, he added:
‘Receiving the OBE was a very proud moment - not only for myself and my family, but also for everyone at the RNLI Torbay station and Brixham as a whole – and Prince William was great!’
Alongside his commitment to the RNLI, Mark volunteers with and inspires young people with his work at Brixham Rugby club, Brixham Sea Anglers Club and also takes great pride in helping with school visits throughout Torbay.
During the family’s trip to Buckingham Palace, full search and rescue capability was maintained by the men and women of the RNLI Torbay volunteer lifeboat crew under Deputy Coxswain Roger Good, meaning that Mark, his wife Mel and their two sons Maitland and Marsden could fully enjoy their well-deserved big day in London.
Congratulations to Mark and all the family!
Notes to Editors
- Three photos attached show the Criddle family at Buckingham Palace today, and a close up Mark’s OBE medal
Link to original News Release following the OBE announcement in June is here:
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