Lowestoft lifeboat crew 'honoured' to receive Freedom of Town
The title was awarded to the crew for 'selflessly serving their town'
Lowestoft's lifeboat crew say they're "humbled" to be awarded Honorary Freedom of Town.
Lowestoft Town Council awarded the title of Honorary Freedom of the Town to the Lowestoft Lifeboat Crew – past, present and future - for 'selflessly serving their town' during a special ceremony at the Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club.
Lowestoft Town Mayor Sonia Barker said: “It is an honour to be able to confer the title of Freedom of the Town to the Lowestoft lifeboat Crew – past, present and future.”
She continued: “Whilst not a regular activity of the Town Council, we may choose to confer the title of Freedom of the Town on persons who have rendered eminent services to Lowestoft or organisations who have demonstrated that they have delivered exceptional service to the town of Lowestoft.
"It is an infrequently awarded title and not one that the Town Council bestows lightly.
"Our beaches and coast are a part of the character of Lowestoft and a major attraction to tourists and ensuring the safety of people using the sea is where the brave crews of the Lowestoft lifeboat steps in.
"The team of dedicated lifeboat volunteers face all kinds of dangers 24/7 to make sure everyone using the sea is safe.
"This long, outstanding service and show of courage has saved many lives and will continue to do so.”
"Both delighted and humbled"
Receiving the prestigious award on behalf of Coxswain John Fox and the past and present crews of Lowestoft Lifeboat, newly appointed Lifeboat Operations Manager Ruth White said: "Everyone at the lifeboat station is both delighted and humbled to receive this honour and appreciates that is given by representatives of the people of Lowestoft.
“Over the years lifeboats have changed but the bravery of the crews manning them and responding to callouts remains the same and the current crew carries on that tradition.
"Thirty-nine medals have been awarded to Lowestoft crew members over the years, two Gold, 21 Silver and 16 Bronze - the last being in 1997.
"Training is key to providing a professional rescue service and the volunteer crew can be seen on most Sunday mornings going to sea in all weathers to refresh their skills.
"So, to be recognised and have their commitment acknowledged is really rewarding.
"Behind every lifeboat crew is a team of volunteers who help to support their work in many ways not least of which is fundraising, and their role is a vital part of the service.
"We are delighted to receive the medal and certificate marking the Honorary Freedom of the Town from Lowestoft Town Council on behalf of the people of Lowestoft – particularly as I understand that it is the highest honour a Town Council can bestow upon an organisation.”