Port Talbot RNLI crew to cycle 179 miles in honour of stations 60th anniversary

The volunteers taking on the challenge are Port Talbot Lifeboat Station’s Operations Manager, Clive Morris, and Visits Officer, Robert Owen. Back in 1997 Clive took on a similar challenge for the RNLI, running from Poole to Port Talbot Lifeboat Station. Now, 29 years later, Clive is taking it on again exchanging running for cycling to raise vital funds for the RNLI to celebrate the station’s 60^th anniversary.

Clive Morris has been part of the RNLI for four decades, joining the charity in 1980s as lifeboat crew. Throughout his years at Port Talbot, Clive has progressed through numerous roles, beginning as a crew member and progressing to helm, the person in command of the lifeboat. Clive has also held the role of launch authority alongside his position as helm, before becoming lifeboat operations manager. Clive said:

‘I have enjoyed every minute of my time at the RNLI, and I’m so proud of the amazing work the charity does to save lives at sea.’

Robert Owen, often known as ‘Bob’, has been a crew member for many years before taking the role of lifeboat visits officer at Port Talbot. Bob’s time with the RNLI has continued in the footsteps of his eldest daughter Bex, who has been on the crew for nearly 20 years. Bob said:

‘As the challenge is upon us, I am really excited, the weather looks fantastic and I’m raring to go!’

Clive continued:

‘It is truly an honour to take part in this challenge; to mark the incredible work of all of the Port Talbot Lifeboat Station volunteers over 60 years of service.

‘I’m excited to take it on with fellow volunteer Bob, alongside Paul and Rhys, two crew members from our station who will be supporting us on route.’

To support Clive and Bob’s challenge you can donate via their JustGiving page or make a donation in Port Talbot RNLI Shop. If you wish to show your support in person, Clive and Bob are set to head off from the RNLI College in Poole at 10am tomorrow. Everyone at the RNLI wishes them the best of luck!

You can donate to the JustGiving page here: Crowdfunding For Good From JustGiving

RNLI Media Contacts

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Betsy Owen, Regional Communications Placement on [email protected],uk

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 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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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.