A VOLUNTEER who risked his life in a bid to save a young woman trapped in a cave by rising tides has been honoured by the Queen.

Ian Bugler, who has worked with St Albans Head Coastguard Rescue Team for 25 years, was awarded the Gallantry Medal for Exemplary Bravery for his part in the attempted rescue of Charlotte 'Buffy' Furness-Smith.

The 30-year-old became trapped in water at the Tilly Whim caves in November 2013. Members of the emergency services spent hours trying to free her but couldn't reach her.

Mr Bugler took off most of his safety equipment and waterproof clothing so he would fit through a 1.5-metre blowhole some 15 feet above the cave in a desperate attempt to save Ms Furness-Smith.

He was repeatedly smashed into the sides and roof of the cave as he tried to reach her.

Sadly, Mr Bugler realised Ms Furness-Smith had died.

The deputy station officer said: “I’m honoured to receive this award which I feel I am receiving on behalf of all my colleagues out on the coast.

"We will always respond to the call for help, but we don’t always know what we’re going to.

"My father, who was the station officer, had to watch while I went down into the blowhole not knowing if I would come out again.

"Although it’s an honour to receive this award, it’s tinged with sadness that we weren’t able to rescue the woman that day.

"It’s a reminder that the coast can be a dangerous place and why we need as coastguards to always be ready to respond when someone calls 999 and asks for help."

Sir Alan Massey, CEO of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: “This is a prestigious honour for a coastguard to receive and I am immensely proud that Ian has been recognised in this way.

"Without a second thought for his own safety, he selflessly tried to save another’s life.

"This Gallantry Medal is extremely well deserved and Her Majesty’s Coastguard is very lucky to have such a dedicated officer volunteering with them. He is an inspiration to us all.”