A lifelong commitment to saving lives at sea began with a childhood dream, and an RNLI pager.
This week marks 30 years of volunteer service for lifeboat crew member Dave Riley, who began his RNLI journey at Eastbourne Lifeboat Station on June 17, 1996.
Mr Riley’s fascination with lifeboats began when he was young, often rushing to the seafront with his father to watch the Rother-class lifeboat launch.
At 16, he set his sights on joining the crew, and on his 17th birthday, he officially enrolled, receiving what he described as "the best birthday present ever" – his RNLI pager.
Mr Riley later moved to Poole to work for the RNLI, continuing his volunteering as a helm and coxswain at Poole Lifeboat Station.
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A spokesperson for RNLI said: "Dave is a huge part of our station and his dedication, experience and willingness to serve have made a lasting contribution to the RNLI and the many people he has helped over the years.
"All the station would like to wish Dave a very happy birthday, and to thank him for his selfless service."
Since joining, Mr Riley has launched 1,080 times, helped 1,356 people, and is credited with saving 66 lives.
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