Two decades of dedication to Islay RNLI
Stephen MacNeill, affectionately known as 'The Jotan', has been honoured with a 20-year service medal by the RNLI, marking a significant milestone in his commitment to the local community.
Stephen joined Islay RNLI in December 2002 when he was just 21 years old. At the time, he was employed as a panel beater at a local garage. The decision to join the RNLI was sparked by a simple invitation from another of the crew members. ‘Billy asked me, 'Fancy joining?'’. Stephen recalls. 'I came along to see what happens, went for a run, and no bother, I joined up and never looked back.'.
Unlike some of his crew-mates, Stephen doesn’t come from a family with a history of RNLI service. In fact, his experience with boats was limited to occasional ferry rides off the island. However, this didn't deter him; instead, 'I learned a lot of my mechanics with the RNLI and the training is what gave me the confidence to go out to sea.'. Only 1 in 10 volunteers joining the RNLI come from a professional maritime occupation.
Reflecting on his most memorable moments with Islay RNLI, Stephen modestly remarks that no one stands out more than the others. For him, the true reward lies in the shared crew experience. It's the sense of camaraderie and 'craic' that has kept him dedicated to the RNLI for the past two decades. “They’re such a great bunch of folk on the lifeboat crew, that’s what makes it.”.
All at Islay RNLI wish to thank Stephen for his dedication as he receives his well-deserved 20-year service medal. The Islay and Jura community celebrate not only his individual achievements but also the enduring spirit of volunteerism and community service that the RNLI embody.
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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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.