Three of Scilly’s lifeboat crew are being awarded medals.
Coxwain Andy Howells and Crew Members Philip Roberts and Mark Bromham are to be awarded the RNLI?s Bronze Medal for Gallantry for saving the life of a severely injured yachtsman on 29 October 2003 despite fading light and 50mph winds.
The RNLI?s deputy divisional inspector for the south, Tom Mansell says of the rescue: ‘Despite the lifeboat being knocked down once by the dreadful sea conditions, the circumstances which led to the two crew members having to perilously jump onto the stricken yacht, the severe injuries that had to be dealt with once onboard, the difficulties in transferring the man safely ? not to mention the multi-way communications necessary and the utmost skill needed to manoeuvre the lifeboat ? a man was saved from certain death.
‘Coxswain Andy Howells showed a high degree of leadership, courage and determination, not only by saving the yachtsman, but also by ensuring the safety of his crew and the two air crewmen.
‘This rescue is a supreme example of the professionalism of RNLI lifeboat crew, and of the excellence of all services involved in maritime search and rescue. Supporting the lifeboat crew to save the yachtsman’s life was the aircrew of a Royal Naval helicopter, two of which were winched onto the yacht and later pulled a lifeboatman from danger when his lifejacket strap snagged on the lifeboat rail as he jumped onto the yacht. The merchant vessel, Oceanis provided vital shelter from the fierce winds for the rescue and an RAF helicopter provided top cover during the rescue. All in all a great team effort.?
But other members of the crew will not go unrewarded. Crew Members Clive Sibley and Paul Guy; and Mechanic Andrew Brown and Second Mechanic Christopher Jenkins will each receive a framed letter of Thanks signed by the RNLI?s Chairman.