By Isle of Wight Observer
Members of Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat (SSIL) crew collected King Charles III Coronation Medals, commemorating the King’s coronation, from the Island’s High Sheriff, Graham Biss, in a ceremony at Sandown’s Broadway Centre.
The award recognises the work of members of frontline Emergency Services, and is only awarded to those with a minimum of five years service.
Mr Biss said: “The voluntary lifeboat crew, under Mark’s leadership, more than deserve this recognition, reflecting the dedication and commitment they give for the residents and visitors to the Bay.”
Coxswain, Mark Birch, responded: “It’s been a challenging time for the team, with damage to our slipway and our tractor, but it is an honour for all of the crew, to be recognised in this way.”
SSIL crew also received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service earlier this year. The King’s Coronation Medals recognised the service of Mark Birch (31 years’ service), Chris Bartlett (8), Terry Hobbs (8), Ian Davidson (9), David Howes (23), Daniel Bircham (7), David Millard (14), John Burns (11), Stephen Woodham 24), Sarah Gooden (6), Daren Sands (27), Richard Burns (10), Darren Fuller (11), Ian Butler (5), John Hayes (11), Lucy Burns (7), Kirren Shaw (5), Graham Arnold (8), and Neil Styles (5).
The ceremony was attended by friends and family of the crew.
See our gallery of pictures at iw.observer/lifeboat-awards-pics or use the camera on your mobile phone to scan the QR code.
