RNLI volunteer receives 50-year Long Service Award

Mrs Joan Kirkwood McDowell (age 84) a volunteer for Workington and Whitehaven RNLI Fundraising Branch has been presented with her 50-year Long Service Award.

Over the last five decades, Joan has undertaken many roles within the Workington and Whitehaven RNLI Committee. She has served as Chair and Secretary on many occasions, being part of the Branch Committee since 1975.

Joan said: ‘Throughout my time at the branch, I have especially loved collecting soft toys for our tombolas, washing them, sanitising them and getting them ready for their new owners.

‘My late husband Alan was a RNLI Coxswain at Workington Lifeboat Station from 1967 to 1972. We both loved being involved in the RNLI together, often fundraising on Whitehaven Marina with our RNLI collection buckets.’

Joan was the Mayor of Workington in 2004, following in her mother’s footsteps from when she was Mayor in 1984. Joan said:

‘Being the Mayor of Workington meant a lot to me, following after my mother. During my time as Mayor, I chose the RNLI as one of my charities, alongside Parkinson’s Disease Society, as my Alan had Parkinson’s.’

Gill, Fundraiser with Workington and Whitehaven Fundraising Team, said:

‘Joan is a much-loved and respected member of our fundraising branch, and it is only fitting that her incredible contribution is recognised with this Long Service Award. Joan is known for her commitment, enthusiasm and generosity. We are immensely grateful for everything she has done and continues to do.

‘Congratulations Joan on this wonderful and well-deserved milestone.’

Dani Beckett, RNLI Community Manager in Cumbria, said:

‘Joan's dedication to the RNLI over the past 50 years has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her passion, commitment and tireless support have helped raise vital funds for the charity's lifesaving work for generations.

‘Without the support of volunteers like Joan, we would not have the funds to train and equip our lifeboat crews and lifeguards. I would like to thank Joan for her exceptional service and congratulate her on this outstanding milestone.’

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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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