RNLI Volunteer recognised by Posthumous Award

The contribution of Aberystwyth RNLI volunteer Sonia Jenkins to the RNLI has been recognised by the posthumous award of a Long Service Medal for 50 years of service and letter of thanks from RNLI Chief Executive Mr Mark Dowie to Sonia’s husband David.

Sonia and David Jenkins MBE have together dedicated 110 years of voluntary service to the RNLI - Sonia has been at the forefront of fundraising and social activities at Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station whilst her husband David Jenkins MBE will have served both as lifeboat crew and treasurer for 60 years when he retires at the end of the year.

David and Sonia were actively involved in the wider management of the RNLI regularly represented Aberystwyth at the RNLI Annual Presentation of Awards and Ceremonies and AGM at the Barbican Centre, London.

Sadly, Sonia died in September 2020 and speaking of the award, Aberystwyth Chairman Mr Mark Morgan said “This award is a wonderful tribute to a great lady who served our station, the RNLI and our local community with such enthusiasm and devotion for over half a century.”

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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