Vale of Glamorgan RNLI volunteers granted Freedom of the Vale at Civic Reception

The event, held at the Civic Offices in Barry, recognised the commitment and dedication of RNLI volunteers who serve the communities of the Vale, saving lives at sea and raising vital funds to keep the charity’s lifeboats afloat.

Speaking at the reception, Laurie Pavelin, Chair of Penarth Lifeboat Station, expressed gratitude on behalf of the entire RNLI team:

'The RNLI has a long and proud history in the Vale, and this honour is not just for those of us here today, but for every volunteer – past and present – who has dedicated themselves to saving lives at sea. Whether answering the pager at any given hour, maintaining our lifeboats and equipment, teaching vital water safety skills, or tirelessly fundraising, each person plays a crucial role in the RNLI’s mission.’

He also recognised the vital contribution of the fundraising teams:

‘None of this would be possible without the incredible work of our fundraisers. The volunteers of the Dinas Powys Fundraising Branch, alongside those supporting Barry Dock and Penarth, ensure that we have the resources to continue our lifesaving work. Their dedication – organising events, raising awareness, and inspiring communities to support the RNLI – is just as vital as launching a lifeboat. Without them, we simply couldn’t do what we do, and tonight is an opportunity to shine a light on the people behind the yellow wellies.’

The Freedom of the Vale is the highest civic honour that can be awarded by the council, symbolising the strong connection between the RNLI and the local community. The event, hosted by the Mayor of the Vale of Glamorgan, Cllr Elliot Penn, was attended by invited guests, including representatives from the RNLI, Vale of Glamorgan Council, and local dignitaries.

Cllr Elliot Penn said: ‘The RNLI is a charity that relies on the commitment and generosity of volunteers to help keep people safe along our country’s coastline.

‘As the Vale is a coastal county, we benefit from that dedication more than most, with RNLI volunteers helping to keep people safe at our resorts, beaches and the waters further offshore. These courageous individuals carry out this work not for personal gain, but for the benefit and protection of others.

‘The Council wanted to recognise this contribution with a gesture that reflects our appreciation and admiration for the people who give up their time in this way.

'This award is made to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to our communities and is richly deserved. It serves to illustrate the power of volunteering, which in this case quite literally saves lives.’

Olivia Harrison, newly appointed Chair of Barry Dock RNLI, highlighted the importance of community support and the RNLI’s one crew ethos, which unites all volunteers, supporters and staff in their shared mission:

'There are over 200 volunteers from the community in the Vale of Glamorgan and none expect to be recognised as they all give their time unconditionally. The team of crew, lifeguards, water safety, shop volunteers and fundraisers are all out continuing their vital roles as a collective effort to save lives.

‘Being granted the Freedom of the Vale shows the deep connection between the lifeboat stations in the Vale and the communities we serve. The support we receive from the Vale of Glamorgan and its residents has been unwavering, from local businesses backing fundraising efforts, to the words of encouragement received by the RNLI lifeboat stations whenever the lifeboat heads out.’

The support of the Vale Council has been greatly appreciated, not only in recognising the dedication of all RNLI volunteers but in ensuring they can continue the lifesaving work with the backing of the wider community. The RNLI is a charity that relies on donations and fundraising efforts to provide its lifesaving service. Barry Dock and Penarth Lifeboat Stations remain on call 24/7, ready to respond to emergencies at sea and along the coastline.

Notes to Editors:

• The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the UK and Ireland.
• Barry Dock and Penarth lifeboat stations operate in the Vale of Glamorgan, launching lifeboats in all weather conditions to respond to emergencies.
• The Dinas Powys Fundraising Branch, along with other RNLI fundraising volunteers, plays a crucial role in raising funds to support the charity’s work.
• The RNLI’s OneCrew ethos recognises that every volunteer, staff member, and supporter is part of the same team, working together to save lives at sea.
• The Freedom of the Vale is a civic honour awarded by the Vale of Glamorgan Council to recognise outstanding contributions to the local community.
• For more information, images, or interview requests, please contact Lisa Newberry at [email protected]

For further information, please contact:

Lisa Newberry, Lifeboat Press Officer, Barry Dock Lifeboat Station, 07977 922889. Alternatively, you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, 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.