An RNLI volunteer who has supported the charity for more than 60 years has been recognised for his service. 

Brian Cole was rescued by the charity as a 17-year-old after a 200ft fall from cliffs in Brixham, Devon, in 1959. 

He said: “I was so grateful to the RNLI that, every year after that, I collected for the RNLI at work and began to give talks about my experience and the great work of the RNLI around Bath and later around Yeovil, when I moved there.”

He was this week given a long service medal for his support to Exmouth RNLI in Devon, where he has lived since 1976. 

He has carried out various voluntary roles at the station including station admin officer, giving talks and latterly as a tour guide.

The RNLI said the only time he cut back on his fundraising was when he was Exmouth Town Mayor between 2016 and 2018.

Steve Hocking-Thompson, coxswain at Exmouth RNLI and who presented Cole with his award, said: “Brian has been a committed and enthusiastic RNLI volunteer and fundraiser for over 60 years and richly deserves his long service medal. 

“It is a fantastic achievement, and it has been a privilege for all of us to have him as part of our team.”

Ian Rick, lifeboat visits officer at Exmouth RNLI, said: “Brian is positive, cheerful and always laughing and very popular with visitors and fellow volunteers.”