NATIONAL PRESENTATION of
Saturday 18 October 2025
British Motor Museum
President’s Welcome
It is a genuine pleasure to welcome you all to the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) National Presentation of Honours 2025 at the British Motor Museum. Today’s ceremony is dedicated to recognising the extraordinary people who make RLSS UK what it is.
This afternoon is especially meaningful to me, not only because we are celebrating your incredible achievements, but also because this is my first National Presentation of Honours ceremony as President of RLSS UK. I’ve had the joy of meeting many of you over the years, and I’m constantly struck by your passion, your generosity, and your belief in the power of lifesaving and water safety education. You are the reason our Society continues to thrive.
As your new President, I have the privilege of seeing the impact our volunteers make across the country—often quietly, always profoundly. Whether teaching lifesaving skills, supporting events, mentoring young members, or simply showing up week after week, your contribution matters. It saves lives, it builds communities, and it inspires others.
Today is all about you—our volunteers. It’s been a privilege to spend time with so many of you throughout the day, hearing your stories, sharing ideas, and celebrating your work. The energy in the room is a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit that define our community.
Today, we celebrate your achievements, your dedication, and your impact. I am honoured to be here with you, and I look forward to sharing more stories, shaking hands, and saying thank you in person.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Bryan Finlay President, RLSS UK
CEO’s Welcome
It is an honour and a privilege to welcome you to this year’s National Presentation of Honours ceremony, where we come together to celebrate the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s (RLSS UK’s) remarkable affiliate members who give their time, energy, and passion to educate and train the UK and Irish communities to enjoy water safely and be free from drowning.
I had the privilege of attending last year as an observer and guest, before stepping into my role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in January. I found myself deeply moved by the spirit of dedication and community that filled the room. Being here again, this time as RLSS UK CEO, is both humbling and inspiring. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of RLSS UK. Whether teaching lifesaving skills, promoting water safety, supporting events, or working quietly behind the scenes, your contributions make a profound difference. You bring our mission to life in swimming pools, on beaches, in schools and within communities nationwide.
I have had the joy of attending a number of lifesaving events, including Speeds and the Commonwealths, where I witnessed your commitment, tireless efforts, skills, innovation, and impact. You have enabled us to reach more people, build stronger partnerships, and continue to champion the values of compassion, resilience, and lifesaving excellence. Today, we celebrate you. On behalf of the Royal Life Saving Society UK, thank you for your unwavering commitment to lifesaving.
I look forward to meeting many of you today and hearing about your experiences.
Warmest regards,
Simmy Akhtar Chief Executive Officer, RLSS UK
Thank you
Thank you to our host, Michael Gunning, who is joining us for this year’s National Presentation of Honours ceremony. Michael Gunning is a former international swimmer, having set multiple national records for both Team GB and Team Jamaica throughout his competitive swimming career.
Whether in the pool, on screen, or through advocacy, Michael uses his platform to drive meaningful change and uplift future generations.
Michael is a proud ambassador of RLSS UK and regularly advocates for the importance of water safety. He has also been a huge supporter of RLSS UK’s Drowning Prevention Week campaign, resharing messaging on social media to spread the water safety message far and wide.
Order of Proceedings
All honours are awarded for voluntary work undertaken in 2024
WELCOME ADDRESS
PRESENTATIONS
Service Awards
Youth Awards
Merit Awards
SPECIAL AWARDS
The Deborah Hunt Trophy
The Mark Smith Trophy
The Clive Holland Trophy
The Brian Morrissey Cup
The Ken White Trophy
The Stanley Peck Trophy
The Stuart Bailey Trophy
The Young Leader Award
VOTE OF THANKS
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
Introducing the RLSS UK Trustees
The Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in ensuring the good governance of RLSS UK and steering the organisation’s future direction. Some of the Trustees are attending the National Presentation of Honours ceremony today, so please take this opportunity to meet them.
BRYAN FINLAY RLSS UK President
Let’s use our history to shape our inclusive future.
Our 130+ year history makes us strong and proud – let’s use this to our advantage and build upon our strong foundations to develop our charity and increase our visibility and recognition in the UK and Ireland.
My vision is to:
• Create a fully inclusive and accessible society that engages current members/volunteers whilst encouraging new members, to help us prevent drowning and learn vital skills to help save lives.
• Encourage participation from all areas of the Society to extend our reach where we don’t have a footprint.
• Ensure that Lifesaving Sport continues to grow and is supported across the whole society.
• Develop our campaigns so we deliver them more widely.
• Use our membership’s expertise so we can support the staff team and further enhance our national profile.
• We need the right qualified expert staff who will use our volunteers to help lead and drive our dynamic organisation with passion and strength.
• Ensure our pool lifeguard qualifications remain the industry’s ‘gold standard’ and recognised worldwide.
• Explore new ideas/concepts so we lead the way in lifeguarding/lifesaving awards and qualifications.
• Make sure all participants and lifeguards are exposed more widely to RLSS UK and its work to encourage them to become advocates for the charity.
• Fully engage our members, whether volunteers, officials/competitors and/or trainers in our aims and objectives and ensure they are at the heart of our decision-making process.
• Encourage recruitment of new volunteers through local ownership of activities so they can help deliver our charitable aims.
• Be the “go to” organisation, so everyone can safely enjoy being in, on and near water.
• Recognise and reward our volunteers/members and those who deliver our messages, going above and beyond.
• Educate everyone to enjoy water safely.
As President, I will work with our members, volunteers, committed staff, and fellow trustees to successfully take us forward to the next chapter!
Wouldn’t it be great if RLSS UK could become a household name one day? I am confident that moving into new sectors within our communities and creating partnerships would allow us to educate more people about RLSS UK and our objectives.
PETER MOYES
Peter’s strategic leadership experience in the public, private and voluntary sectors spans over 20 years. Currently, Peter is the Chief Executive of the Life Skills Education charity, specialising in drug and alcohol education for young people.
After graduating from the Police Strategic Command course in 2008, he joined the Nottinghamshire Police Chief Officer team and is a former Director of Nottingham City Council, responsible for the Crime and Drugs Partnership and commissioning the city’s drug treatment services.
Peter was elected RLSS UK President for the period 2013-2016. He is also chairman of Retford and District Lifesaving Club, a coach and competitor at all levels, up to World Championships.
JOANNE YOUNG
Since the age of 14, Joanne has been a member of lifesaving clubs/services, working collectively with others to promote the importance of water safety and ensure that the community benefits from the skills and knowledge needed to save lives now and in the future.
In addition, she is the chairperson of a very busy charity run independent lifeboat station (GAFIRS), working alongside the board of trustees to ensure that the organisation is future-proof by raising funds and promoting the value of the lifeboat within the community.
Joanne has been an RLSS UK trainer for the last 40 years, and an active member of the Wessex branch for 20 years. Over the years she has seen first hand how lifesaving is a universal language.
DR BEN JOHNS
Ben has been an active member of RLSS UK since completing his Bronze Medallion at the age of 14.
As his interest in lifesaving grew, he went on to complete his Lifesaving Distinction and National Pool Lifeguarding Qualification (NPLQ) –working as a lifeguard for the local authority for almost a decade whilst at university. For many years, he volunteered as an instructor and club Chairman at Pontardawe Life Saving Club within the West Wales branch.
Following completion of his PhD Ben has since served on the RLSS Commonwealth Diploma committee, working to widen access to this research award.
RACHEL HEALEY
DR BEN JOHNS Trustee
Rachel has been involved with RLSS UK since she was seven years old and first started lifesaving lessons. She has completed a wide range of awards throughout this time including pool and beach lifeguard qualifications, open water lifeguard qualification, lifesaving and lifeguarding Trainer Assessor and NRASTC.
Rachel started teaching lifesaving when she was 16 years old and is a qualified Rookie Tutor. More recently, Rachel has discovered a love for lifesaving competitions.
KIT OWEN-SMITH
CRAIG KERR Commercial Trustee
SHEENA HARPER
JAMES LLOYD Trustee
Ben has been involved with RLSS UK since earning his Bronze Medallion at 14. He later achieved the Lifesaving Distinction and National Pool Lifeguarding Qualification, working as a lifeguard for nearly a decade. Ben volunteered as an instructor and club Chairman at Pontardawe Life Saving Club. After completing his Ph.D., he joined the RLSS Commonwealth Diploma committee to expand access to the award. A Clinical Scientist and Special Constable, Ben uses his expertise in service development and leadership to support RLSS UK. He is committed to representing local members and enhancing grassroots efforts, recognising the contributions of volunteers.
Kit brings extensive experience of working in the charitable sector to his role as an RLSS UK trustee.
Rachel has also been the Lifesaving Safeguarding Officer at her club for a number of years.
He has worked or volunteered for eight charities since 2005, including the leading water safety charities of RLSS UK and RNLI. He has held management positions in fundraising since 2022 and has a wide range of experience in different branches of fundraising, including church and community partnerships; event, speaker, volunteer management and wills. He has also been a trustee for a small children’s charity and was its chairman for six years. His passions are to see RLSS UK raise more funds and to increase the retention of young people in the society.
Craig combines a passion for water safety with over 30 years of leadership experience in professional services to support the strategic development of RLSS UK. After earning his Bronze Medallion and Award of Merit as a teen, he pursued various water sports such as surfing, sailing, and kayaking. Recently, Craig has completed open water swims, including crossings of Lake Geneva, Lake Windermere, and the English Channel. Professionally, he has built a team in China, led a business unit at a ‘Big 4’ firm, and served on global governance committees. Craig is also a committee member at London’s Serpentine Swimming Club.
Sheena has gone from participant to lifesaving mentor in her 50 years’ membership of RLSS UK. She is passionate about enhancing RLSS UK’s lifesaving community, so everyone can enjoy being in, on and around water, safely.
Sheena was Chair of her local lifesaving club, actively delivering and facilitating lifesaving awards and is Coordinating Lead of the pilot group investigating different ways for volunteers to work together to deliver the society’s strategic aims.
Having an acquired disability, Sheena champions wider inclusion and overcoming barriers for individuals’ participation within the lifesaving community.
James is an experienced Director with expertise in board-level leadership, contract management, and business growth. Currently serving as the Group Finance Director of a national property development consultancy, he also sits as a NonExecutive Director on three NHS Partnership Boards. Since joining RLSS UK in 2023, James has chaired the commercial and finance committees, supporting the organisation`s growth and revenue generation. He is committed to helping RLSS UK achieve its ambitious plans and maximize commercial opportunities, ensuring the charity can continue its vital work in water safety and lifesaving education. He enjoys collaborating with the team to drive success.
CAROL JONES
After spending her career supporting the commercial sector with a profit motive, Carol uses her skills and experience to help and support RLSS UK in its mission to be the leader in lifesaving and lifeguarding in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, sharing its expertise and knowledge with as many people as possible, giving everyone the potential to save lives and enjoy water safely.
As a fully qualified accountant (F.C.C.A.), Carol brings strong analytical financial skills and business acumen into play.
SHARON JOHAL
Sharon boasts an impressive legal career spanning over 25 years, with a primary focus on the finance sector, particularly within listed financial services and asset management firms.
With extensive experience as a General Counsel, she has amassed a strong track record of success in these areas. Her decision to become a part of RLSS UK as a Legal Advisor reflects her deep commitment to the organisation’s mission of water safety education.
Sharon is committed to values such as collaboration, honesty, transparency, equality, and trust. These personal values closely align with RLSS UK’s dedication to inclusivity.
CRAIG KERR
Craig brings a lifelong passion for safety in and on water, along with expertise in professional services, to support the growth and strategic development of the Society.
Since completing both the Bronze Medallion and Award of Merit in his early teens, Craig has pursued a wide range of water sports both individually and with his family, including surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, sailing and kayaking. In the last decade, he has also taken a shine to open water swimming and has completed numerous swims.
Craig has over 30 years of commercial and leadership experience in professional service businesses, ranging from start-ups to ‘Big 4’.
GEORGINA TOMLINSON
Georgina is the Youth Advisor to the board of trustees.
She has been involved with RLSS UK from the age of ten. She is passionate about youth development, community connection and outreach, as well as lifesaving sport. She will be working with the Youth Advisory Board to represent youth within the Society as well as implement new initiatives. Her involvement with RLSS UK has been in several different areas. She started as a youth program participant, doing the Rookie Lifeguard, Survive and Save and Young Leader courses.
Georgina is a qualified Trainer Assessor (TA) and now teaches RLSS UK courses and awards at her local club.
Youth Ambassadors
The RLSS UK Youth Ambassador Board, led by Georgina Tomlinson, our Youth Advisor to the Board of Trustees, represents the views of younger RLSS UK members throughout the UK and Ireland.
This board ensures that young members’ perspectives, ideas, and concerns are heard and considered in the Society’s decision-making process. By providing a platform for youth voices, the Youth Ambassador Board plays a crucial role in shaping the future of RLSS UK, fostering engagement, and encouraging active participation among younger members in the lifesaving community.
Members:
Georgina Tomlinson (Youth Advisor)
Alice Nuttall
Amine Badaoui
Ellie Dickerson-Weedy
Gemma Hayden
Isabel Jones
Joseph Bates
Sarah Clark
RLSS UK PRESENTATION of HONOURS 2025
SERVICE HONOURS
Service Honours are awarded to individual members of RLSS UK or members of affiliated clubs/organisations or RLSS UK Approved Training Centres, for years of continuous voluntary service to the Society.
RLSS UK
Long Service Medal50 Years’ Service
We award our highest recognition to individuals who have volunteered for 50 years or more. It honours their exceptional long-term commitment and invaluable contributions to RLSS UK.
Derbyshire
Melvyn Sutton
Paul Dickerson
Hull & North
East Yorkshire
Malcolm Bell
Kent
Kathy Batts
Lincolnshire
Angela Ann Pettit
Scottish Eastern
Sheena Harper
Wessex
Christopher Durnford
Worcestershire & Herefordshire
Peter Taylor
RLSS UK
Recognition of Service - 40 Years’ Service
This award is presented to individuals who have dedicated 40 years or more of voluntary service to RLSS UK. It recognises their long-term commitment and invaluable contributions to the organisation.
Republic of Ireland
Patricia Cullen
Suffolk
Alison Pugh
RLSS UK
Honorary UK Life Member35 Years’ Service
This honour is presented to individuals who have volunteered for 35 years or more. It acknowledges their significant long-term dedication and invaluable contributions to RLSS UK.
Cheshire & Merseyside
Beryl Lyon
Geoffrey Lyon
Derbyshire
Nina Winrow
Northumberland & Durham
Joseph Welsh
Republic of Ireland
John Doyle
Sean Connor
RLSS UK
2nd Bar to Service Cross –30 Years’ Service
This award is presented to individuals who have volunteered for 30 years or more. It recognises their enduring commitment and significant contributions to RLSS UK over three decades.
Essex
Gina Doyle
Hull & North East Yorkshire
Mary Hannan
Leicestershire & Rutland
David Laxton
Kenneth Short
Robert Wells
Suffolk
Angela Smith
Richard Pearce
Worcestershire & Herefordshire
Suzanne Hill
Scottish Eastern
Bryan Finlay
Suffolk
Alison Pugh
Darren Maguire
Julian Loader
Wessex
David Young
Worcestershire & Herefordshire
Jessica Davies
Roger Hayward
RLSS UK
1st Bar to Service Cross –25 Years’ Service
This award is presented to individuals who have volunteered for 25 years or more. It acknowledges their long-term commitment and significant contributions to RLSS UK.
Republic of Ireland
Patricia Kelly
Scotland West
Alistair Jardine
Wessex
Pamela Oddy
West Wales
Jonathan Wallace
RLSS UK Service Cross20 Years’ Service
This award is presented to individuals who have volunteered for 20 years or more. It recognises their sustained dedication and valuable contributions to RLSS UK.
Derbyshire
Elizabeth Harby
North & West
Yorkshire
Louise Bolton
Matthew Jagger
Matthew Quimby
Republic of Ireland
Graham Cullen
Raymond Cullen
Rebecca Carroll
Sheila Mulhair
West Wales
Gareth Abbott-Haigh
Worcestershire & Herefordshire
Eric Lancaster
Norma Blake
RLSS UK
Bar to Service Medal16 Years’ Service
This award is presented to individuals who have volunteered for 16 years or more. It acknowledges their longterm commitment and significant contributions to RLSS UK.
Republic of Ireland
Eamonn O’Brien
Louise Thompson
Raymond Cullen
West Wales
Andrew Hughes
Dr Benjamin Johns
Kevin Gerard
Sarah Falconer
William Bowen
RLSS UK
Service Medal - 12 Years’ Service
This award is presented to individuals who have volunteered for 12 years or more. It recognises their dedication and valuable contributions to RLSS UK.
Derbyshire
Rachel Healey
Kent
Joanne Willson
Stephen Goldsmith
Lancashire
Richard Williams
Northumberland & Durham
James Harris
Scottish Eastern
Fiona Hall
Somerset
Glynn Kettleborough
Staffordshire
Alisha Patel
Wessex
Andrew Barber
RLSS UK
Service HonourCertificate of Thanks
Awarded to individuals who have volunteered for four to eight years of service. Multiple certificates may be awarded to recognise their contributions to RLSS UK.
Derbyshire
Heather Watson
Jacob Middleton
Rebecca Emerton
Rita Cummins
Scarlett Swift
East Wales
Sam Adams
Hertfordshire
Susan Nash
Kent
Bridget Busfield
Caroline Leggatt
Denise McWilliams
Julie Bardoe
Rosemary Davies
Leicestershire & Rutland
Christine Selby
Trevor Selby
Manchester & District
Teri Devlin
Northamptonshire
Fay Tennet
Northumberland & Durham
Aimee Boneva
Ben Stephenson
Caitlin McDonnell
Eloise DickersonWeedy
Gracie McMullen
Isabel Penlington
Julie Ann Rogers
Lewis Graham
Michelle Elstob
North &
West Yorkshire
Ellie Wilson
Finlay Benn
Zoe Gilliland
Scotland West
Jennifer Prentice
Somerset
Luca DeGregorio
South Yorkshire
Barbara Smith
Jacob Screeton
Mark Benton
Suffolk
Edward Wilkes
Sussex
Jude Morris
Olivia Grace Kidd
Republic of Ireland
Allanah Carey
Eileen Kavanagh
Ella Dunne
Hannah Carty
Jamie Hammond
Lauren Dunne
Michele Dunne
Patricia Carey
Rebecca Thompson
Robyn Drumm
Ronan Spain
Sam Carty
Sarah O’Flaherty
Sophie Callender
Wessex
Alan Rackett
Dan Hill
Gary Glenister
Kelly O’Neil
Lewis Archibald
MERIT HONOURS
Recipients of a merit will have fulfilled the criteria described for each award below:
RLSS UK
Merit
Honour
for Young Lifesaver of The Year
The RLSS UK Merit Honour for Young Lifesaver of the Year is an esteemed award recognising the remarkable contributions of young members aged 14-24 within the RLSS UK. Each branch of RLSS UK is encouraged to nominate one exceptional young individual from their region who has demonstrated outstanding dedication, skill, and commitment to lifesaving. This initiative highlights the importance of acknowledging the heroic efforts and hard work of young lifesavers who contribute significantly to their communities by ensuring water safety and providing crucial lifesaving services. The recognition not only celebrates their achievements but also inspires other young members to engage in lifesaving activities and community service.
Avon & North
Wiltshire
Amelie Whalley
Derbyshire
Wesley Malcolm
Essex
Isabel Nicholls
Hull & North
East Yorkshire
Russell Kneller
Kent
Nikita Goldsmith
Mid Yorkshire
Ella Durrant
North &
West Yorkshire
Ellie Wilson
Northumberland
& Durham
Ben Stephenson
Nottinghamshire
Eva Chapman
Suffolk
Nuala Mahoney
RLSS UK
Merit Honour - Certificate of Merit
The RLSS UK Merit Honour - Certificate of Merit is an award given to individuals who have made a meritorious contribution at the club or branch level of the RLSS UK. This award recognises the significant efforts and dedication of members who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to lifesaving and water safety. The Certificate of Merit can be awarded to an individual more than once, but there must be a minimum interval of two years between awards to ensure ongoing and sustained contributions are being recognised. This accolade not only honours the recipient’s hard work and dedication but also encourages continued excellence and commitment within the RLSS UK community
Avon & North Wiltshire
Andrew Shaw
Annabel Cruse
Charlotte Bradley
Cher Holland
David Fielding
Emma Lane
Jo Whalley
Joanne Finkel
Kate Ross
Lauren Tew
Laurie Fay
Louise Keast
Rachel Heaton
Sarah Chivers
Sarah Shaw
Trevor Cruse
Derbyshire
Jonathan Bridgewood
Kate Waterfall
Devon
Arthur McCauley
Orla Sullivan
Sophie Prywata
Zoe Attwood
Essex
Emily Thistlethwaite
Harrison Doyle
Luke Catton
Oliver Henson
Kent
Anita Yaxley
Emma Sawyer
Kirsty Reed
Lesley Hopperton
Leicestershire
George Wright
Holly James
Jonathan Rigby
Kaitlyn Peberdy
Lynette Wright
Martin Wright
Michael Peberdy
Michael Rigby
Molly Wright
Rebecca Pope
Susan Rigby
Manchester & District
Toby Shepherd
North Wales
Bryn O’Brien
David Sion Spencer
Northamptonshire
Fay Tennet
Northumberland & Durham
Ben Stephenson
Brett McIntyre
Republic of Ireland
Cillian Spain
Scottish Eastern
Ronnie Dewar
Yvonne O’Malley
Somerset
Eleanor Woollven
South Yorkshire
Alison Leone
Amanda Clough
Amie Ledger
Caramia Muffett
Carol Bell
Caroline Jones
Craig Stables
Gavin King
Geoff Hayes
Geraldine Richard
Helen Andrews
Jacob Toller
James Yardy
Jane Partridge
Justyna Doniec-Lumb
Kiera Valentine-Bull
Laura Rodgers
Lindon Howden
Mark Swift
Mark Toller
Melanie Smith
Sandy Swift
Sarah Valentine-Bull
Teresa Hubery
Tracy Hyland
Wayne Hubery
Zak Crookes
Suffolk
Neil Middleton
Sussex
Belinda Barrington
Joseph Slaughter
Thames Valley
Jessica Brownlee
Wessex
Alan Rackett
Andrew Barber
Charlotte Oddy
RLSS UK
Merit Honour - Certificate of Recognition
This award is given to individuals for their ongoing and sustained contributions at the club or branch level within RLSS UK. This award is designed to acknowledge and celebrate members who continue to demonstrate dedication and commitment to lifesaving and water safety over an extended period.
This recognition serves to honour the long-term efforts and dedication of members, encouraging them to maintain their valuable contributions to the RLSS UK community.
Avon & North
Wiltshire
Aaron Pearce
Ann Norvill
Anna Hill
Briony Shepherd
Carl Martin
Jen Ewings
Kathleen Pearce
Martin Bridgwater
Pam Bougeard
Sandra Rollason
Derbyshire
Christine Dening
Mike Waterfall
Rachel Healey
Scarlett Swift
Terence Fox
Tim Dening
Essex
Kennedy Ann Gorrie
Troy Lemmon
Kent
Andrew Fooks
Andrew Griggs
Bridget Busfield
Cameron Munday
Cheyenne Goldsmith
Victoria Wilkinson
Northumberland & Durham
James Harris
Scottish Eastern
Fiona Hall
Lynn Lawrence
Scotland West
David Keown
Scottish Eastern
Lynn Lawrence
Suffolk
Amelia Pearce
Elaine Hammond
Kate Bramwell
Neve Maguire
Susan Rust
RLSS UK
Merit HonourMedal of Distinction
This is a prestigious award recognising individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the RLSS UK at the club, branch, or regional level, or a notable contribution at the national level. This accolade is intended to honour and acknowledge the remarkable efforts and dedication of members who have shown exceptional commitment and service to the RLSS UK community, encouraging a continued high standard of excellence and leadership in lifesaving activities.
RLSS UK
Merit HonourBar to Medal of Distinction
Derbyshire
Chris Screeton
Dawn Lockwood
Rebecca Emerton
Suzanne Selway
Essex
John Ballard
Hull & North
East Yorkshire
Leanne Ayre
Kent
Joanne Willson
Stephen Goldsmith
Northamptonshire
Noah Hollowell
North & West
Yorkshire
Matthew Jagger
Matthew Quimby
Scotland West
Alistair Jardine
Somerset
Ruth Kettleborough
Suffolk
Sarah Pawsey
Sussex
David Slade
Wessex
David Young
Pamela Oddy
West Wales
Benjamin Johns
Worcestershire
Diego Worrall
This award is given to individuals who continue to make outstanding contributions to the RLSS UK at the club, branch, or regional level, and/or notable contributions at the national level.
This award serves to honour those who consistently demonstrate outstanding dedication and service to the RLSS UK community, reinforcing their long-term commitment to lifesaving and water safety excellence.
Derbyshire
Jeremy Johnson
Essex
Gina Doyle
Hull & North
East Yorkshire
Leanne Ayre
Kent
Neil Morgan
Paul Paulding
Republic of Ireland
Noel Mulhair
Sheila Mulhair
RLSS UK
Merit HonourMedal of Honour
This is a distinguished award recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the RLSS UK at the branch or regional level, and/or notable contributions at the national level.
The Medal of Honour serves to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of members who have made a profound difference in promoting lifesaving and water safety, inspiring others within the RLSS UK and beyond.
East Wales
Tim Kretschmer
Sussex
David Slade
RLSS UK
Merit Honour -
Bar to Medal of Honour
This is an award recognising those individuals who have continued to make exceptional contributions to the RLSS UK at the branch or regional level, and/or notable contributions at the national level following the receipt of a Medal of Honour.
This award serves to honour and acknowledge the sustained and outstanding dedication and service of members who consistently demonstrate exceptional commitment to the RLSS UK community.
Kent
Paul Paulding
Northumberland & Durham
Michele Weedy
Penney Wilkinson
Suffolk
Alison Pugh
RLSS UK
Merit HonourHonorary UK Life Governor
Awarded for an outstanding contribution to the Society as a whole. For this award, the recipient would have given ‘outstanding contribution’ at national level.
Essex
Valerie Hardy
RLSS UK
Merit HonourUK Honorary Vice President
This is a prestigious award granted to individuals who have made a supreme level of contribution to RLSS UK. The UK Honorary Vice President award serves to celebrate and acknowledge the remarkable efforts of those who have made a profound and lasting impact on RLSS UK, inspiring others through their exemplary service and commitment to lifesaving and water safety.
RLSS UK Honorary Associate
Kent
Deborah Hunt
These certificates are awarded to recognise individuals, groups or organisations who are not members of the Society, but who have rendered a significant contribution.
John Hunt Newfs in Action
SPECIAL AWARDS
The Deborah Hunt Trophy
This trophy is awarded to a member who has contributed to equality, diversity, and inclusion at national, branch or club level.
Suffolk Kirsty Reed
Kirsty has made an outstanding contribution to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion within BULSCA. Over the past three years, she has led impactful initiatives that have shaped both policy and practice, driving meaningful change from a competitor level all the way to national competitions (BULSCA Champs). Kirsty introduced new inclusion aspects to ensure all members felt valued and supported, and she played a pivotal role in the development of the Diversity and Inclusion Policy. Her efforts have established a legacy of accessibility and respect across BULSCA.
The Mark Smith Trophy
This trophy is awarded to a member who has demonstrated the highest contribution to the strategic future of the charity.
Leicestershire
Mark Smith
Mark is awarded the Mark Smith Trophy for his outstanding contribution to the writing of the RLSS UK’s strategic document. Leading a small working group of staff and trustees over a period of nearly a year, Mark led with professional ability and leadership skills.
The strategic document is a credit to Mark’s long-standing passion for and contribution to the working of RLSS UK.
The Clive Holland Trophy
This trophy is awarded to an RLSS UK affiliated club that has excelled in promoting the Society’s objectives within its community. It recognises achievements in areas such as club growth, collaboration, innovative programs, lifesaving sport, and community involvement.
Nottinghamshire
Retford & District Lifesaving Club
2024 has been a landmark year for Retford & District Lifesaving Club, defined by exceptional achievement and community engagement. The club hosted its first Rookie Lifesaving Festival in partnership with Heanor and Carlton Lifesaving Clubs, introducing 50 new participants to the sport. Collaborations with Crawley Town and St John Berchman’s Lifesaving Clubs led to Retford fielding the only English Masters Squad at the World Masters Lifesaving Championships, earning gold and silver medals, and setting a new national record in the ladies’ relay.
The club delivered 50 sessions totalling over 125 hours of training, with an average of 50 participants per session. Additionally, they ran 12 sessions in 50m pools, including instructor and lifeguard development courses. Their community outreach included two beach activity days, four local events, and guest speaker visits to schools and groups— supporting 10 primary schools and hosting the Regional Lifesaving Championship.
Twenty Youth Squad members competed at the World Inter-Club Lifesaving Championships in Australia, currently holding four national records. Retford & District Lifesaving Club has demonstrated outstanding growth, leadership, and dedication, making them a worthy recipient of The Clive Holland Trophy.
The Brian Morrissey Cup
This Cup is awarded for the work undertaken on a society community programme. Nominations can be for an individual, club, or group.
Kent
Kent Community Outreach Team
Throughout 2024, the Kent Community Outreach Team continued to deliver the Save a Life Series, reaching over 568 participants with vital training in CPR, choking, and drowning response for babies, children, and adults. The team—comprising trainers from local lifesaving clubs and former SAL workshop attendees—also incorporated AED instruction into their sessions.
Their community engagement included delivering water safety messages and CPR demonstrations at the Whitehill Primary School Summer Fayre and the Medway Mile, reaching hundreds more. They organised a Charity Golf Day and Pub Quiz, raising over £6,000 with support from Medway Council, Southern Water, and the Walker Trust, enabling the purchase of new manikins. The team also oversaw the installation of an AED in Gravesend and provided training to local residents.
Working collaboratively and welcoming new members, the team continues to expand its reach and impact. Their efforts have led to real-life incident management successes, with consistent feedback highlighting the life-saving value of their training across Kent.
The Ken White Trophy
This trophy is awarded for any fundraising work on behalf of the Society at a national, regional, branch, club or local level. The citation should recognise the level of commitment and enthusiasm given throughout 2024. It is not necessarily the recognition of the amount of funds raised. Nominations can be submitted for a club or an individual.
Nottinghamshire
Jeremy Baguley
In 2022, the club began preparations to send a team to the 2024 World Inter-Club Lifesaving Championships in Australia. A committee was formed, and Jeremy, a club member and competitor, took on the role of leading the fundraising effort. In 2024, he approached the task with enthusiasm and creativity, inspiring volunteers and members to develop innovative ways to raise funds and promote both the club and the Society.
Jeremy’s work had a profound impact on the wider community, particularly in advancing water safety education and lifesaving’s humanitarian values. He organised educational events and quiz nights, ensuring water safety remained central, and brought together groups such as the Lions, Rotary, and the Masons to raise awareness of lifesaving sport.
In the small market town of Retford, Jeremy’s outreach reached thousands, with over 50 local businesses contributing and more than 100 families visiting the club. His efforts raised an outstanding £21,000 and generated significant interest, nearly doubling club membership. Jeremy’s leadership has left a lasting legacy of community engagement and lifesaving promotion.
The Stanley Peck Trophy
This trophy is awarded to a person who does the most to carry out the objectives of the Society in their local area, in any capacity.
West Wales
Stuart Yeandle
Stuart has dedicated over 60 years to RLSS UK, demonstrating unwavering enthusiasm and leadership throughout. As Chair of the West Wales Branch, his commitment has been instrumental in sustaining its activity and impact. Stuart has served in numerous roles, including Awards and Sales Officer, Competition Organiser, and coach at every level—club, branch, regional, and national.
He has contributed to both Regional and National Committees and notably managed the Wales team at the 2001 RLSS Commonwealth competition, continuing to support coaching and administration for subsequent teams.
His influence extends to preparing Wales Region competitors for national championships and collaborating with organisations such as SLSA Wales to promote water safety. Stuart represents RLSS UK across multiple regional forums and partnerships, engaging with emergency services, councils, and tourism bodies to elevate the Society’s profile. He played a key role in planning a permanent open water swimming course in Swansea Bay and has championed online training initiatives, contributing to educational resources from RLSS UK and the Resuscitation Council.
In 2024, Stuart organised a successful ‘fun’ competition to engage clubs outside the National Life Saving Championships, with another planned for 2025.
Stuart continues to train and assess CPR, Rookie Lifeguard, Lifesaving, and National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches (NRASTC), supporting clubs with skill development and teaching strategies. As a member of the organising committee for the 2025 RLSS Commonwealth Championships in Swansea, Stuart remains a driving force. In addition to his role as Branch Chair, he serves as Treasurer and sits on the Branch Honours Committee.
The Stuart Bailey Trophy
This trophy is awarded to an individual or group for outstanding work, specific to an open water environment. Although not limited to, for guidance, it may include work carried out by a rescue service, exceptional open water swimming challenge or open water safety days, demonstrations or camps.
Avon and North Wiltshire
Keynsham Life Saving Club
For the past seven years, Keynsham Life Saving Club has delivered outstanding open-water training, enabling members to apply pool-based skills in rivers, lakes, and the sea. In 2024, five volunteers earned their National Water Safety Management Programme qualification, allowing the club to safely run six popular sessions on the River Avon in Saltford, with 50 bookings overall.
The club’s experienced instructors led a progressive training programme tailored to both seasoned lifesavers and newcomers. Sessions included hazard identification, land-based rescues, acclimatisation, and advanced techniques such as wading rescues, HELP position, and torpedo buoy towing. Members also practised water entries from height and used Malibu rescue boards and surf skis.
Despite being a pool-based club, Keynsham has invested significant time and effort to build in-house capacity for open-water training, reducing reliance on beach lifeguard clubs and increasing accessibility for members. The summer season concluded with a joint session at a local water park, welcoming over 60 young lifesavers from across the Avon and North Wiltshire Area—including members of the newly-formed Bristol Life Saving Club—for a safe and confidence-building open-water experience.
Keynsham Life Saving Club continues to set a high standard in lifesaving education, outreach, and innovation.
The Young Leader Award
The Young Leader Award is awarded to an individual aged 14 to 24 who shows exceptional personal leadership in supporting the Society’s goals. The National Honours Committee selects one recipient from the list of Young Lifesaver of the Year Certificate winners to receive this award.
Northumberland and Durham Ben Stephenson
Ben has been a committed member of Blyth Lifeguard and Swimming Club for many years, progressing from Rookie Lifeguard and lifesaving programmes into teaching, and is currently undertaking his NLA Instructor’s course. His journey has been marked by determination and personal growth, overcoming anxiety and the challenges of a stutter to become a confident and respected instructor.
Through swimming, lifesaving championships, pool and beach lifeguarding, and teaching, Ben has steadily built his confidence. He is admired by the children he teaches and has become a natural mentor to younger members. His knowledge across lifesaving disciplines and sport continues to grow, and he generously gives up his weekends to patrol the beach and pass on his skills.
Ben has supported the club at social events, demonstrations, and carnivals, and he has even lifeguarded on Boxing Day - always eager to share his experience with the public. His dedication has not only shaped his role in the club but also helped him secure a full-time job in nursing as a care assistant.
From his first Regionals, where fear kept him in isolation, to consistently placing in the top three for the past six years, Ben’s journey in lifesaving sport is remarkable. He is living proof that with perseverance, any challenge can be overcome. Ben continues to teach, lifeguard, and compete, and his impact on the club and its members makes him truly deserving of this trophy.
William Henry Awards
Here at RLSS UK, we’re constantly inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteers throughout the UK and Ireland.
Our annual National Presentation of Honours ceremony is a great opportunity to say a huge thank you to a very special group of people, but we would also like to acknowledge and recognise our volunteers all year round. Supporters of RLSS UK can log the valuable time that they give for free to support the work of the charity, whether that be one hour a week, or giving up a couple of weekends to support local community events.
Our William Henry Award Scheme is one way of recognising the constant day-to-day support that RLSS UK volunteers give to the charity, so if you’d like to, please remember to log your volunteering hours so that we can say thank you.
You can do this on the RLSS UK website by following this link: www.rlss.org.uk/william-henry-award
The William Henry Awards are also a good way for us to be able to demonstrate the amount of amazing volunteering that goes on around the UK and Ireland, as well as the variety of activities our volunteers take part in to promote RLSS UK and lifesaving in their local communities.
RLSS UK simply would not exist without the support and devotion of our volunteers, so thank you once again for all your hard work.
Photographs
Thank you to our photographer, Matt Pereira, who has joined us at the National Presentation of Honours ceremony for his eleventh year.
Photographs will be available to purchase in the coming week.
To see more of Matt’s amazing work, visit: mattpereira.co.uk
