AN ABERYSTWYTH man who has given over half a century of service to the town’s RNLI service is “amazed” after being awarded an MBE by the Queen in the New Year’s Honours list.

David Jenkins, who received his award for “services to Maritime Safety”, was joined on the list by two more north Ceredigion residents – Lee Coulson of Penparcau and Catherine Beech of Borth – who both received British Empire Medals for their work in the community.

Mr Jenkins, known as Dai, has dedicated over 55 years to the RNLI.

The RNLI called his contribution over the years “truly remarkable”.

Mr Jenkins has served as a volunteer at Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station for over 55 years as crew member, station administrator, and honorary secretary.

For the past 17 years he has served as station treasurer and fundraiser.

Mr Jenkins said: “When I got the letter, I was totally and utterly amazed – why me?

“Everything I’ve done is because I’m interested in things, and not for any award.”

Catherine Beech of Borth has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her outstanding services to the community in the village.

Lee Coulson of Penparcau – the head basketball coach at Aberystwyth basketball club – has also been honoured with a BEM for “services to disability basketball”.

Rowena Wendy Jones, a paediatric oncology outreach specialist nurse from Aberaeron was also honoured with an MBE.

“It took me totally by surprise,” she told the Cambrian News. “My first reaction was to check the postmark because I suspected I was going to be asked to provide my bank details!"

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