Introduction by Major Marco Ciotti following Sir Richard Collas’ welcoming words.

“The people of the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands and the Republic of Ireland all depend on the RNLI – and the RNLI relies on its network of more than 31,500 volunteers. We are here this evening to honour a group of Islanders who, together, have accumulated well over 150 years of service. Once on board as part of the crew, local volunteers tend to stay for a long time, as tonight’s awards will testify. Indeed, it is very likely that most have served the RNLI for even longer than their awards might suggest.

2014 was the second busiest year on record for the St Peter Port lifeboat, which put to sea more than 90 times. To date this year, the lifeboat has put to sea more than once a week. Guernsey owes a debt of gratitude to those Islanders who stand ready at all hours and in all conditions to deliver a comprehensive search and rescue service in one of the most challenging of sea areas.

There is often mention of luck in search and rescue but, as in so many fields, the lucky ones make their own. It stems from dedication and professionalism, and Guernsey can take pride in the fact that St Peter Port Lifeboat has plenty of both.”

The awards were presented by acting Lt-Governor Sir Richard Collas. Photos by Brian Green

Edward Fattorini, vice chairman of the Guernsey branch, Steve Gould, Mike Galliott, Keith Martel, John Le Tissier, Sir Richard Collas, Carl Bisson, John Webster and Rob Alder – picture by Brian Green

Keith Martel, John Le Tissier, Rob Alder and Carl Bisson Picture: Brian Green – November 10, 2015

The award winners with the St Peter Port Lifeboat crew and Peter Gill

Carl Bisson is awarded the 20-year RNLI Long Service Badge

John Le Tissier is awarded the 20-year RNLI Long Service Badge

John Webster is awarded the RNLI Silver Statuette in recognition of his valuable support of the Lifeboat service.

Keith Martel is awarded the RNLI Certificate of Service.

Mike Galliott is awarded the RNLI Silver Statuette in recognition of his valuable support of the Lifeboat service.

Rob Alder is awarded the 20-year RNLI Long Service Badge

Steve Gould is awarded the RNLI Bronze Badge in recognition of his valuable support of the Lifeboat Service.