Looe RNLI Volunteer Receives British Empire Medal – But Do You Know What He Achieved?

Published On: 7 April 2025Last Updated: 7 April 2025By CornishStuff

📷 David Haines BEM - Photo credit: RNLI / Ian Foster

British Empire Medal Presented at Looe Lifeboat Station

Looe RNLI volunteers gathered at The Albatross Boathouse yesterday afternoon, Sunday 6th April 2025, to witness the presentation of the British Empire Medal to long-serving former Lifeboat Operations Manager, David John Haines.

The award, which David received as part of His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours, recognises his services to Maritime Safety and the RNLI.

📷David Haines receiving his British Empire Medal from the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho - Photo credit: RNLI / Ian Foster

A Lifesaving Legacy Honoured

His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho, presented the medal in person and was joined by Councillor Pauline Giles, Chairman of Cornwall Council, and Charlie Sims, Lieutenancy clerk.

With the inshore lifeboats positioned on the slipway, the boathouse filled with David’s family, friends, current and former RNLI crew members, fundraising volunteers and members of the local community.

After a welcome from current Lifeboat Operations Manager Clive Palfrey, the formal ceremony began. Councillor Pauline Giles read out David’s official citation:

“A humble hero whose legacy transcends accolades, his selfless devotion is an inspiration to everyone in guaranteeing a path of service, courage, and kindness for generations to come.”

32 Years of Service, 65 Lives Saved

Sir Edward highlighted David’s incredible dedication to the Looe lifeboats over 32 years, during which time the station launched 1,027 times, assisted 826 people, and saved 65 lives.

David thanked the Lord Lieutenant and said he was humbled by the number of people who had come along. He also thanked Clive and the team for making the afternoon so special.

Cream Teas and Community Spirit

After the ceremony, Clive proposed a vote of thanks and invited everyone to enjoy a cream tea. The refreshments were served by the crew, with thanks given to Rodda’s, Cornish Tea and Coffee, and Quayside Fresh for donating the clotted cream, milk, tea, coffee and jam.

The event was a fitting tribute to a much-respected volunteer whose commitment has left a lasting impact on lifeboat operations in Looe.