The RNLI’s Annual Presentation of Awards was held in London’s Barbican Centre on 22 May with guest of honour HRH The Duchess of Cornwall. She presented the RNLI’s Silver Medal for Gallantry to Torbay Coxswain Mark Criddle for his part in rescuing eight men from Ice Prince on 13 January. (See more on page 20.)

Dedicated RNLI supporters were also honoured at the ceremony. Eric Cass was named Individual supporter of the year in recognition of his and his wife’s efforts over the past 17 years. (See more about the Casses on page 49.)

The Campaign for Real Ale, whose fundraising since 1989 has paid for three lifeboats, won in the Group category. St Nicolas in Downderry, Cornwall, was the School supporter of the year, while Euan Foster from London was the Individual youth winner.

Irish journalist Joe O’Shea was named the winner in the Media relations category and the RNLI Henry Blogg museum shop took the Retail title. The HBOS Foundation was Corporate supporter of the year, while csma with LV=Frizzell were presented with the Lifetime achievement award. Dozens of grass-roots supporters were also recognised, as reported in some issues of Compass.

The Duchess witnessed for herself the work of the RNLI at Anstruther lifeboat station in May 2007. During her visit, one of the station’s lifeboats was called out on a shout. She said: ‘Seeing them pull on their kit and launch the lifeboat into pretty rough seas was quite a sight, and I couldn’t help but be enormously impressed with their courage, efficiency and skill.’

Contact Supporter Care or visit rnli.org.uk for copies of the Annual Review and Annual Report and Accounts.