A lifeboat stalwart is to get a top award.

Philip Oxley, secretary of the Walton and Frinton lifeboat, is to be presented with the RNLI's gold badge in recognition of his long and outstanding operational service.

Mr Oxley has been a volunteer with the RNLI at Walton for 37 years, beginning as a launcher and shore helper.

He said: "I am both surprised and very pleased to hear the news. It is an honour for the station and branch as a whole."

He added: "I am privileged to work with a dedicated and committed band encompassing the crew, launchers, branch officers and fundraisers."

Mr Oxley will be presented with the award at the RNLI's annual meeting at the Barbican Centre in May.

Published Wednesday, January 8, 2003

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