RNLI Volunteers Celebrate Decades of Lifesaving Dedication
Margaret Bowden, a stalwart volunteer at the Exmouth RNLI shop, has hit an incredible 30 years of service. The long-standing lifesaving charity honoured her with a special certificate from Chief Executive Mark Bowie.
From Isles of Scilly to Exmouth: A Lifelong Commitment
Margaret spent 15 years as Honorary Secretary at the Finchley and Friern Barnet RNLI Branch before relocating to Exmouth to carry on her vital work. She revealed, “My family were regular visitors to the Isles of Scilly and became friendly with RNLI volunteers there. My young son’s fascination with the lifeboat sparked my lifelong dedication to this remarkable organisation.”
Another Local Hero Recognised
Robert Austen, also an Exmouth shop volunteer for 13 years, received his certificate from Mark Bowie too. Robert said, “I first got involved when the new Exmouth lifeboat station was being built. The lifesaving work truly inspired me to volunteer.”
A Coastguard Ring of Safety
Supported by passionate volunteers like Margaret and Robert, RNLI’s 238 lifeboat stations around the UK and Ireland stand ready 24/7 to rescue those in peril at sea.
If you fancy lending a hand, there are loads of ways to volunteer—from lifeboat crews and shop volunteers to fundraisers and press officers. Dive in and help save lives: https://rnli.org/support-us/volunteer/how-you-can-volunteer
