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Blyth RNLI volunteer recognised for service to the RNLI

Lifeboats News Release

There was a surprise for Christine Fitch who is a volunteer at Blyth RNLI as she was presented with an award for excellence in volunteering.

RNLI/Robin Palmer

Christine Fitch being presented with her award for Excellence in Volunteering

Christine was at an event at the Lifeboat Station in Blyth on Christmas Eve where friends and family of the station had gathered for the arrival of Santa, but little did she know that she was to get her own present as well.

Her dedicated support to Blyth Lifeboat Station and the RNLI was recognised by a presentation of an award signed by the Charity’s Chief Executive Mark Dowie. The Charity wanted to say ‘Thank You’ for the contribution that she makes in a variety of roles, which include Lifeboat Administration Officer, co-ordinating visits, shop volunteer and attending many fundraising events.

Lesley Robson, RNLI Visitor Experience Manager, who presented the award to Christine said; ‘I’m delighted to have been able to present this award to Christine.The RNLI would like to recognise the time and dedication Christine has provided to the Charity,which has ensured that our water safety message has reached hundreds of visitors.I know how much commitment and enthusiasm she puts into all her roles she undertakes and volunteers like Christine help the RNLI continue to save lives at sea.’

Barry Pearson Lifeboat Operations Manager at Blyth RNLI said; ‘People may think it is just the volunteer crew that make up the local Lifeboat Station but there are group of volunteers that ensure that the Lifeboat Station operates as effectively as it does.This award is very much deserved by Christine and I’d like to add my ‘Thanks’ for all the hard work that Christine puts into not only our Station but the RNLI as a whole.My role would be a lot more difficult without the support of volunteers like Christine.’

He added; ’On behalf of Blyth RNLI, I would like to take this opportunity to say ‘Thank You’ to everyone else who has supported the Lifeboat Station this year and wish everyone a peaceful and safe New Year and all the best for 2020.’

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Robin Palmer, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07801 290638 or [email protected] or Clare Hopps, Regional Media Officer on 07824 518641 or [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office 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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.