Teignmouth RNLI volunteer achieves the landmark of 30 years service

Will said: 'I’ve been brought up on and around the river on boats and my family has a history of serving as lifeboat crew going back to before the station was closed in 1940. When it reopened in 1990, my father was one of the many locals that help persuade the RNLI to reinstate a lifeboat in Teignmouth. So I wanted to follow in my father’s and my family’s footsteps.
Because I spend a lot of time on and around the river area when not working as a fisherman, it makes sense with my local knowledge, that when someone does get in to difficulties then I will able to help rescue them.'

Charlie Woolnough, Lifeboat Operations Manager said: 'Will has an immeasurable wealth of martime experience and local knowledge having spent his life on and around the water. He leads an exemplary example to fellow crew members and his dedication is second to none. I would like to thank him for the 30 years he’s served and also thank his family who allow him time to serve our community.'

Ends

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.