When the general public think of RNLI volunteers, they think of crew, like me, probably a bit older, with a big thick beard!

The team at the Lifeboat asked me to introduce this issue as I have experience on the volunteering front. As well as being a full-time RNLI lifeboat trainer and casual beach lifeguard, I am also a volunteer on Swanage lifeboat crew, the Flood Rescue Team, South Western Ambulance Service and Surf Life Saving GB.

The RNLI has been awarded The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Volunteering Award 2012 and this issue of the magazine celebrates RNLI volunteers today.

Volunteers are instrumental – they are at the heart of the RNLI. It’s what makes us unique and independent from Government.

True joy comes from the knowledge that by working as part of a team we can make a difference and change peoples lives.

Thank you for all your support.

Grant Walkey
RNLI Volunteer