By IW Observer.co.uk
Jeremy Dale, who was awarded an OBE in last year’s Queen’s birthday honours list has been awarded his OBE medal by Prince Charles.
Born in the mid-50s, due to family breakdown Jeremy was sent to boarding school from the age of six, in the days when dyslexia and dyspraxia weren’t widely understood. His school reports always said he could do better if he tried harder, but due to his difficulties he left school at the age of 16 with no qualifications.
As he was a practical lad and loved boats it was decided that he should attempt an apprenticeship. He thrived on the experience, spending three years training at Shed 55 in Falmouth and a further year at Helford boatyard, attending Falmouth Technical College on block release.
He subsequently spent his working live in the marine trade, acquiring Cowes-based lifejacket manufacturer, Seasafe, some 30 years ago, which has gone from strength to strength under his leadership.
In 2016 he was made an honorary member of the UK Maritime Pilots Association and a Fellow of the Nautical Institute, and last year was nominated for an OBE for his services to maritime safety.
He said: “My apprenticeship and Falmouth Technical College gave me the skills I needed to succeed in life after a difficult start. My lecturers were people with real life experience in the trade, and they passed on their skills to me.
“I feel very honoured to have been awarded an OBE. I know first hand how difficult it can be when you are made to feel a failure early in life. I hope that younger people today facing similar challenges can be inspired by this.
“I always tell them you will never fail if you don’t give up.”
Isle of Wight Observer