Bridlington RNLI Coxswain Andy Rodgers recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

For three decades of dedication, Andy Rodgers, coxswain at Bridlington Lifeboat Station, will be made a Member of the British Empire (MBE).

Andy began volunteering in 1995 and has spent more than 600 hours at sea. He has launched to 188 incidents, during which the station has been credited with aiding 167 people and saving 13 lives.

One rescue of particular note was to the fishing vessel George Lou-N on 7 December 2011 with a severely injured man and seven others onboard. The vessel had mechanical problems and was being battered against the North Pier at Whitehaven in strong winds and a three-metre swell. Andy was instrumental in the rescue and despite the severe conditions, the fishing vessel and crew were brought to safety.

Andy, who also works for the charity as regional technical lead said: ‘It was a great surprise, and I was overwhelmed and honoured to have received this award. I am just one member of a crew and without all the supporters and volunteers the RNLI could not continue to save lives at sea. I would also like to thank my wife and family. Without their support over the decades my commitment to volunteering would not have been possible.’

Jake Bennett Bridlington RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘We are incredibly proud here at Bridlington lifeboat station to see one of our coxswains, Andy Rodgers, awarded an MBE in the King's Honours. This recognition is a testament to Andy's unwavering dedication over three decades, his exceptional skill at sea, and the countless lives he and his crews have helped. It truly highlights the commitment of all our volunteers and the vital role Bridlington lifeboat station plays in saving lives at sea.’

Five other volunteers and one member of staff have been honoured by The King for their incredible contribution to the charity that saves lives at sea.

RNLI Chief Executive Peter Sparkes said: ‘The commitment and dedication of our people never ceases to amaze me, and these individuals are no exception. I am so pleased to see this national recognition right across the RNLI from the frontline delivery of our lifesaving services to our shops and fundraising groups.

‘Everyone at the RNLI is a lifesaver and we couldn’t do what we do without the sum of their parts. This includes the families, friends and employers who support them behind the scenes, enabling our people to give their time to support our mission.

‘My congratulations to these worthy recipients and my sincere thanks to the thousands of others who continue to volunteer their time to saving lives at sea.’

Notes to editors

· High-res images of all the recipients can be downloaded here.

RNLI Media contacts Jess Curtis, RNLI and Regional Engagements North and East, Lifeboat Press Officer at Wells: Tel 07483488243 Email: [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

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The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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