Walmer RNLI volunteer recognised for 70 years of service with Global Award

The presentation was made at the annual Global Search & Rescue Awards in in London yesterday. The award was one of four nominations for the RNLI recognising and celebrating the achievements of search and rescue teams, volunteers, organisations and suppliers who have really made a difference, responding to disasters and emergencies around the world.

Les first joined as a teenage shore crew member in 1955, going on to serve on the inshore lifeboat between 1964 and 1972. In 1970, he was awarded the RNLI’s Thanks of the Institution on Vellum for his role in rescuing two German students trapped in a cave by the tide.

Since stepping back from seagoing duties, Les has continued to serve in almost every operational role at the station. As Boathouse Manager, his meticulous attention to detail ensures the station is always ready to respond.

Les has inspired generations of volunteers, including supporting young people through The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. His legacy extends into his own family, with both his son and granddaughter serving as crew members.

He has also been a powerful advocate for the RNLI within the local community – supporting fundraising, building lasting relationships with supporters, and sharing the RNLI story with visitors and school groups. From championing inclusion, to supporting crew and their families in times of need, he has shown unwavering care and compassion throughout his service.

Les said:’ I felt that being nominated was in itself a bit of a shock, but to be actually presented with the award was an amazing honour. The whole day was an incredible experience and the reception I received when my name was announced as the winner of the award, with the entire room giving me a standing ovation, is something that I will never forget.’

Notes to editors

Walmer lifeboat station was established in 1856.

It currently operates two inshore lifeboats – a B Class Atlantic 85 Hounslow Branch and a smaller D Class Duggie Rodbard II.

Crews have received 28 Awards for Gallantry

To find out more about Walmer lifeboat station go to https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/walmer-lifeboat-station

RNLI media contacts

• Chris Winslade, Lifeboat Press Officer, Walmer Lifeboat Station on 01304 374475 or 07906 623037 [email protected]

• Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead on 07827 358256 [email protected]

• Jess Curtis, RNLI Regional Communications Manager (London/East/South East) on 07724 801305 [email protected]

• For enquiries outside normal business hours, contact the RNLI duty press officer on 01202 336789 or [email protected]

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Christopher Winslade, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South East, [email protected]

Jess Curtis, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 07483 488243, [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.

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