RNLI Chief Executive recognises long-standing Aberystwyth Volunteer
RNLI Chief Executive, Mr Dowie, visited Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station on Wednesday 6 September as part of a series of visits to every lifeboat station in the country.
As part of the visit, Mr Dowie met with Aberystwyth station volunteers to discuss the lifesaving work of the RNLI.
During the visit RNLI volunteer Tommy Ridgeway was presented a framed letter of thanks from the RNLI's Director of Lifesaving in recognition of over 54 years of service to the charity.
Tommy joined Aberystwyth Lifeboat Crew in 1969, serving on the station's D class, C class, Atlantic 21 and Atlantic 75 lifeboats as a valued crewmember and Senior Helm, continuing his shore-based involvement at the station as tractor driver and Deputy Launching Authority.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Mr Geraint Wheeler thanked Tommy for his service to the RNLI stating: 'Tommy has been a volunteer at Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station for over 54 years. We are extremely grateful for his commitment and dedication to saving many lives at sea during this time which has been recognised by the Chief Executive of the institution today.'
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 142,700 lives.
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