A long-standing lifeboat volunteer in Aberystwyth has been recognised for 43 years of service.

The annual Aberystwyth RNLI John James Award for Outstanding Commitment has been awarded to volunteer Geraint Wheeler.

Geraint joined the RNLI in 1978, serving as a lifeboat crew member and later as senior helmsman serving on the C-Class lifeboat, B-Class Atlantic 21 and Atlantic 75 Lifeboat Enid Mary.

Geraint’s involvement continued as Deputy Launching Authority and member of the station’s management committee and he has recently been appointed as station administration officer; a new role introduced to manage the increased administration now required in the daily management of the lifeboat station.

Speaking of the award, station chairman Mark Morgan MNM said: “I am pleased to announce the award of the John James Award for Outstanding Commitment to Geraint, who has been a key member of Aberystwyth Lifeboat Station for many years, demonstrating outstanding commitment and dedication in his voluntary role.

“I congratulate Geraint on the award of this prestigious award which is greatly deserved. “

The John James Award for Outstanding Commitment was created in memory of Aberystwyth lifeboat crew member John James, who died on 20 February 1877.

The crew of the Aberystwyth pulling lifeboat Lady Haberfield was sent to aid an Irish schooner, the Sarah Ellen, which had been caught in a storm and had dropped anchor near ‘The Patches’ off Aberystwyth.

Following a protracted and difficult rescue John James died of extreme cold and exhaustion, the lifeboat bringing the rescued schooner safely to Aberystwyth harbour.