Freedom of town given to lifesavers

THE freedom of the town of Weston-super-Mare has been given to the RNLI to mark its 200th anniversary.

Weston Town Council is to bestow the honour on the charity, which celebrates its bi-centenary next year, with an official ceremony.

The RNLI is an integral part of the seaside town and saves dozens of lives each year thanks to its dedicated team of volunteers.

Only four organisations have been awarded the freedom of the town since records began in 1837, including 40 Commando Royal Marines which was awarded the honour 10 years ago.

Weston mayor Ciaran Cronnelly said: “The honorary freedom of Weston-super-Mare is the greatest honour that our town can bestow on any individual or organisation.”

The RNLI has been operating in Weston since 1882. Cllr Cronnelly added: “The RNLI Weston-superMare is an exceptional organisation, and everyone involved represents the best of us.

“We are immensely proud of its historic and ongoing work. It has our deepest gratitude for the lives they’ve saved and the impact they’ve had on our community.”

The lifesaving organisation is based at Knightstone Harbour in a temporary station. It plans to move operations to Birnbeck Pier in the future, where it was once based, following North Somerset Council purchasing the landmark earlier this year.

Weston RNLI operations manager Chris Ware said: “The whole team are extremely honoured and humbled by the news of this award and the kind words said about our team’s efforts to save lives at sea and assist those in need along our coast. We recognise that this award is not only for our current team but the many Westonians who have been part of our crew and the fundraising team for well over a hundred years.

“We are very aware and privileged that we are only the temporary custodians of what is Weston-superMare’s lifeboat station. We are passionate about giving our very best to serve such a wonderful and supportive community.

“We are also really thankful to our families, friends and employers who support us and allow us the time to do what we do.”

The official ceremony is scheduled for early next year.