LIFEBOAT hero Will Burton has been recognised for 30 years service to the precious RNLI that his family has contributed so much to

Will is Senior Helm at Teignmouth RNLI Lifeboat Station.

He has been awarded the prestigious 30 year service medal, which is the charity’s way of recognising the dedication and commitment of long serving volunteers.

Will said: ‘I’ve been brought up on and around the river on boats.

‘My family has a history of serving as lifeboat crew going back to before the station was closed in 1940, and when it reopened in 1990 my father was one of the many locals that help persuaded the RNLI to reinstate a lifeboat in Teignmouth.

‘So I wanted to follow in my father’s and my family’s footsteps.

‘Because I spend a lot of time on and around the river area when not working as a fisherman, it makes sense with my local knowledge, that when someone does get in to difficulties then I will able to help rescue them.’

Charlie Woolnough, lifeboat operations manager, said: ‘Will has an immeasurable wealth of martime experience and local knowledge having spent his life on and around the water.

‘He leads an exemplary example to fellow crew members and his dedication is second to none.

‘I would like to thank him for the 30 years he’s served and also thank his family who allow him time to serve our community.’

Teignmouth Mayor Peter Williams said: ‘It gives me great please to congratulate Will on his 30 years service with the local lifeboat team and to thank him on behalf of the community and our visitors for making our river and coastline a safer place to enjoy.’