Two West Kirby RNLI crew members recognised for a combined 30 years of service

On Wednesday 2 September, during crew night, two awards were presented by West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Richard Diamond.

Mark Taylor was presented with his 20-year long service medal, while Tom Clark was recognised for 10 years of service.

Mark has spent two decades serving the station across a number of roles, including as boat crew, casualty carer, launch vehicle driver and as part of the shore crew.

Reflecting on what his 20 years have meant to him, Mark said:

‘The award speaks volumes about not just a crew but family. I’ve shared experiences over the years that will never be forgotten. What we do truly is a privilege.’

For Tom, helm and head launcher, his connection to the lifeboat goes back much further than the 10 years recognised by his award. Having grown up around the station, Tom has been part of lifeboat life since childhood, as his dad was also boat crew.

Tom is the first West Kirby crew member to receive the RNLI’s 10-year long service award since the award was introduced by the charity this year.

Richard Diamond, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, said:

‘Long service within the RNLI is about far more than the call outs themselves. Throughout the year, the crew give countless hours to training, exercises, boat preparation, maintenance, events and a wide range of other activities, all alongside their everyday lives and responsibilities.

‘That commitment is also shared by the families and loved ones, who sacrifice their own time, provide support and understand that their loved one may be called away at any time at the sound of the pager.

‘The entire West Kirby crew is very proud of Mark and Tom and the commitment they have shown to the station over many years. Well done both.’

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Eve Kemp, Lifeboat Press Officer, West Kirby RNLI, [email protected]

Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07977 728 315, [email protected]

Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07786 668829, [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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