Mrs Kay Marriott, the Island’s High Sheriff, presented the crew of Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal, accompanied by Sandown Town Mayor Cllr Paddy Lightfoot, with volunteers and family members of the Independent Lifeboat.
The medals, made of nickel silver which has been designed by Timothy Noad of the College of Arms, are awarded to members of emergency services and acts as a token of the nation’s thanks to those who diligently serve the public; featuring an image of The Queen with the Latin inscription ‘Elizabeth II Dei Gratia Regina Fid Def’ which stands for ‘Elizabeth II, By the Grace of God, Queen, Defender of the Faith’.
High Sheriff Mrs Kay Marriott said ‘The selfless dedication and voluntary commitment of the Crew of the Independent Lifeboat, in Sandown and Shanklin, deserve this national recognition and the recent weather situation highlights the invaluable service they provide’.
SSIL Coxswain Mark Birch added ‘I’ve been fortunate to serve with the crew for over 25 years, and know first hand the time and professionalism that all put into providing this all year round voluntary service’.
The history of awarding medals to mark Royal Jubilee’s dates back to the Victorian period when the first medal was awarded to mark the 50th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s reign.
Sandown Mayor Paddy Lightfoot concluded ‘It was a privilege to thank all of the crew and volunteers of the Lifeboat, as well as family members, for all that they do and, the Town Council, are working to increase our support of them’.
Pictures Kevin Weeden