A young solo sailor was among the selfless RNLI volunteers and fundraisers recognised by HM The Queen in this year’s Birthday Honours.

Natasha Lambert was the youngest of the seven RNLI recipients named for their contribution to saving life at sea. The 17-year-old RNLI fundraiser (above) has raised thousands of pounds for the RNLI and other charities with her incredible
solo sailing achievements. The unstoppable teenager, who has athetoid cerebral palsy, controls the helm and sails of her boat with a sip/puff mechanism. Natasha said: ‘I can’t believe I’ve been chosen for this amazing honour. I just enjoy doing what I do.’

Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE)
• Barry High, Gloucestershire: Volunteer fundraiser and major donor of Ilfracombe lifeboat. For services to charity and to the community in Blockley, Gloucestershire.
• Lady Sarah Pigot, Isle of Wight: Volunteer fundraiser and Chairperson of RNLI Isle of Wight Board. For services to the community in the Isle of Wight.
• Vicky Wright, Buckinghamshire: RNLI Trustee and Deputy Chairman. For services to maritime safety.

Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE):
• Captain Neil Hardy, Dorset: Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Swanage Lifeboat Station. For services to maritime safety.

British Empire Medal (BEM):
• Kenneth Headley, East Lothian: RNLI Dunbar shop volunteer. For services to maritime safety.

• Edna Heappey, West Midlands: Volunteer fundraiser and founder member of RNLI Sutton Coldfield Branch. For services to charity and to the community in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands.

• Natasha Lambert, Isle of Wight: Volunteer fundraiser. For services to charity.

• Captain Reginald May, Dorset: President of RNLI Bridport and District Branch. For services to the community in Bridport, Dorset.