In the summer 2002 issue of the Lifeboat magazine, we included a write-up of the rescue of a sea angler who was swept into stormy seas on 2 February 2002 at Porthcawl in Wales.

To make the rescue, Helmsman Nicholas Beale and crew had braved 4m waves in Sandy Bay in winds of up to storm force 10. The crew on the Atlantic 75 spotted a man's head in the water and plucked an apparently lifeless Karl Meyrick from the sea. Against the odds, Karl survived the drama.

Nicholas has already been presented with the RNLI's Bronze Medal for Gallantry for his part in this brave rescue. Now he has also received the Walter and Elizabeth Groombridge award for 2002. The Porthcawl lifeboat is considered to have performed the most meritorious service by a B class lifeboat in 2002.

The RNLI's training divisional inspector for the West, Andy Hurley, says: 'I am very pleased that Helmsman Beale has been further recognised for his seamanship, courage and leadership, which along with his boat handling skills, led to a quick and successful rescue in appalling conditions.' The award consists of a pair of binoculars, fitted with a small inscribed plaque, presented to the helmsman.

Nicholas along with Crew Members Rick Rava and Steve Knipe will also receive framed certificates. A certificate for display in the Porthcawl boathouse will be given to the Lifeboat Operations Manager..