Donate now

Bembridge RNLI volunteers recognised for their dedication to the RNLI

Lifeboats News Release

On the evening of November 5th, Bembridge RNLI and Bembridge Guild hosted a special ceremony at their inshore boathouse to recognise the dedication and commitment of their crew members. The event honoured 26 members who have contributed decades of service to the station.

Group photo of RNLI Crew

RNLI/Laura Campos

On the evening of November 5th, Bembridge RNLI and Bembridge Guild hosted a special ceremony at their inshore boathouse to recognise the dedication and commitment of their crew members. The event honoured 26 members who have contributed decades of service to the station and the RNLI’s mission of saving lives at sea.

The station was privileged to have the presence of Lord-Lieutenant Mrs Susie Sheldon, who has fulfilled this post since April 2019, and awarded medals to crew members marking 20 and 30 years of dedicated service. The medals are to commemorate and celebrate their invaluable experience, skills, and commitment to the RNLI as well as the Bembridge community.

Additionally, leaving certificates were presented to departing crew members Bob Caddick, Paul Tomlinson and Bill Mitchell, who collectively volunteered for over 40 years, acknowledging their bravery and teamwork to Bembridge RNLI. A particularly distinguished highlight of the evening was the presentation of the King’s Coronation Medal, an honour awarded to those who have made exceptional contributions to public service. This award not only celebrated the crew members' dedication to the Bembridge station but also highlighted their role in the broader mission of the RNLI, safeguarding lives and supporting coastal communities.

The ceremony served as a moment of reflection and pride, bringing together the RNLI family, friends, and supporters to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable volunteers. Their ongoing commitment continues to inspire, ensuring that Bembridge RNLI remains a beacon of safety and service in the community.

Awards presented on the evening for 20 Years of service, Fred Milne, Paul Tomlinson, Mike Samuelson and for 30 Years of service, Andrew Sibley.

King’s Coronation Medal awarded to Guy Willing, James Pink, Andrew Sibley, Fred Milne, Jason Clark, Ken Ratcliffe, Justin Gentlemen, Martin Keyworth, Alex Sibley, Marc Thwaites, Gareth Millington, Rob Townson, Andy Cooper, Colin Hawes, John Keyworth, Bob Caddick, Paul Tomlinson, Richard Bishop, Rob Shear, Martin Norman, Tom Hawkins, Bill Mitchell, Bowy White, Kieron Cooney and Martyn Davies.

Group photo of RNLI Crew

RNLI/Laura Campos

Awards and Medals lined up in red boxes

RNLI/Laura Campos

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, Twitter 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.

Categories