Looe Brothers Honoured for 20 Years of Lifesaving Service

Two brothers from Looe have been recognised for more than two decades of dedication to saving lives at sea – and the lifeboat legacy in their family looks set to continue.

Medals Presented by Cornwall’s Lord Lieutenant

During a visit to RNLI Looe Lifeboat Station on Sunday 6th April 2025, Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, presented 20-year long service medals to Clive Palfrey and Del Palfrey.

Clive and Del began volunteering with the RNLI back in 2002, when both were working as net riggers amongst the fishing community on East Looe Quay. Aware of the dangers faced by fishermen, they didn’t hesitate when the opportunity to help the RNLI arose.

📷Left to Right Del Palfrey, Councillor Pauline Giles Chaiman of Cornwall Council, David Haines BEM, Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, Clive Palfrey - Photo credit RNLI / Ian Foster

From Volunteer Crew to Leadership Roles

Clive remembers being asked to join the crew as the Albatross boathouse was being constructed for the arrival of an Atlantic 75 inshore lifeboat. Del got involved soon after when Clive mentioned the RNLI were looking for volunteers to drive the Talus launch tractor, the specialised vehicle used to launch the larger inshore lifeboats.

Over the years, their roles have grown alongside the station. Today, Clive is one of the station’s senior helms and has recently taken on the role of Lifeboat Operations Manager. He still works in the fishing industry as a safety advisor and was recognised in 2018 with the Pirate FM Cornish Coastal Rescue award for leading the #wearitforthem life jacket project.

That safety project, led by Plymouth City Council, has now provided over 1,000 lifejackets with inbuilt locator beacons to fishing crews across the West Country, helping to reduce the number of lives lost at sea. Clive is pleased the work has continued with support from other councils and organisations.

📷Del Palfrey, Amber Palfrey and Clive Palfrey standing next to the charity’s inshore lifeboats - Photo credit RNLI / Ian Foster

A Family Tradition

Del remains the driver of the Talus tractor, which now launches the larger Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat. He also serves in Head Launcher and Shore crew roles, helping to train new volunteers.

The Palfrey family’s commitment to the RNLI is now continuing into the next generation. Clive’s daughter, Amber, joined as boat crew a few years ago, following in her father and uncle’s footsteps.

📷Del Palfrey receiving his 20 year medal from the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho - Photo credit RNLI / Ian Foster

📷Clive Palfrey receiving his 20 year medal from the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho Photo credit RNLI / Ian Foster