Ramsey RNLI volunteer recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours

Joining the RNLI as a volunteer crew member in 1988, Mark progressed to become second mechanic in 1991 and then Coxswain in 1998.

Speaking of the award he said:

‘This award is not about me, it really is for the entire crew. The RNLI is a huge team and without the fantastic teamwork of each and every one at Ramsey RNLI, I would not be able to do what I do. I’m incredibly proud to be part of the team and am honoured to receive this award on their behalf. To receive an award for something which I have enjoyed being a part of for so many years is the icing on the cake.

‘In the 32 years I’ve been on the crew, I’ve seen a variety of shouts, and although we are a relatively quiet station we can experience a flurry of activity in the summer and occasional long searches, a long search is how I actually spent my 50^th Birthday. Every shout is unique in its own way and they’re all memorable for one reason or another.’

Since joining the RNLI at Ramsey, Mark has attended 143 incidents, helping to save 23 lives and aiding 181 people.

Mark started his RNLI career onboard the Oakley class lifeboat. He has fond memories of the station’s current Mersey class lifeboat arriving and was with the boat during its 40 hour trails, he is now looking forward to the delayed construction and arrival of Ramsey’s Shannon class lifeboat.

He adds:

‘Serving on three classes of lifeboat is not something many Coxswains achieve during their lifetime, but is hopefully something I will have the pleasure of doing. That really is quite something and I’m optimistic and looking forward to what the future has in store.’

Mark is also the Director of Harbours for the Isle of Man Government.

The birthday honours, which are usually announced in June, have been delayed this year due to the pandemic.

RNLI Chief Executive, Mark Dowie said: ‘It is such a delight to see RNLI people recognised for their hard work and commitment, particularly as we have had such a challenging year.

‘Those who have been named in this year’s Birthday Honours truly represent the RNLI values through their dedication, support and courage. On behalf of everyone at the RNLI, I send my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to all those who have been recognised.’

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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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