RNLI Operations Director Michael Vlasto will receive a Silver Medal at this year’s RNLI Annual Presentation of Awards.

Michael, who is retiring later this year after almost 40 years’ service, has been awarded the honorary medal for his extraordinary and lasting contribution to saving lives at sea.

RNLI Chairman Admiral the Lord Boyce believes the Director is worthy of the medal as he’s been: ‘More influential in the development of the RNLI, and its ongoing success, than any other individual in the institution’s 189-year history.’

For an insight into the man himself and the breathtaking period of change he’s presided over, see the next issue of the Lifeboat, out in July.