Hastings RNLI volunteer wins Sussex Local Hero Award

Chloe has volunteered with Hastings RNLI since 2014 and has become one of the station's most experienced operational volunteers. She serves as Launch Vehicle Driver, Head Launcher, and, most recently, Lifeboat Trainer Assessor, helping to train and support other volunteers.

The award celebrates people across Sussex who go above and beyond for others through volunteering, community service, and acts of kindness. Organised by More Radio, the annual awards highlight the contribution made by local people whose efforts often happen quietly and behind the scenes. From more than 60 nominations, Chloe was one of just three winners and was announced live on air on Friday 31 July.

Chloe's nomination described her as a volunteer who leads by example, supports and develops others, and gives her time selflessly to help people in need. It also recognised the important role she plays in helping ensure Hastings Lifeboat Station remains operationally strong for the future.

Earlier this year, Chloe and her partner Liam, who is also a volunteer crew member at Hastings RNLI, welcomed their son Flynn. Since becoming a parent, Chloe has continued volunteering and helping keep the station ready to respond whenever the pager sounds.

On winning the award, Chloe said, “I'm incredibly humbled to receive this award, but nobody at the RNLI works alone. Whether we're responding to a shout, fundraising, or supporting the station behind the scenes, it's always a team effort and every volunteer plays a vital role in saving lives at sea.”

“I really accept this on behalf of the whole station and everyone who gives up their time to help keep people safe on the water."

Lifeboat Operations Manager, Jo Mayne, said, “It gives me enormous pleasure to see Chloe recognised with this award. Her commitment to the RNLI is exceptional, and balancing family life, her career, and volunteering is no small achievement.”

"Chloe embodies everything the RNLI stands for. She is a highly respected member of the team who leads by example, always willing to support others and help other volunteers develop in their roles. This recognition is thoroughly deserved, and we are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved.”

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its lifesaving service depends on volunteers like Chloe, who give their time, skills, and commitment to help keep people safe around the coast 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Anyone interested in volunteering with the RNLI can find out more at rnli.org/volunteer.

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Linda Revill, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South East, [email protected]

Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for London and South East England, 07827 358256, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, 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.