by Rebecca Hannant
A volunteer at HM Coastguard in Hornsea is set to receive a British Citizen Award.
On Thursday, July 25, station officer Jonathon Cliff is set to receive the award at Westminster Palace for his service to the community, having volunteered with HM Coastguard for 45 years since joining in May 1979.
Jonathon is among 26 exceptional individuals to be honoured with the BCA. He told the Gazette: “I was surprised and humbled when I was notified. Those who know me will know this puts me well outside of my comfort zone.
“When I joined in 1979, my expectation was to serve for a couple of years. Forty-five years on and I’m still as committed as I was back then.
“While I am proud to receive the British Citizen Award, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to all the volunteer Coastguard rescue officers in the UK, past and present, who give up their time to help others in need within their communities, and the Coastguard rescue team at Hornsea, whose commitment is without question.
“Also, to their families for putting up with the disruption when a call for service comes in. Special mention to my wife Jo without whose support this achievement would not have been possible.”
Stephanie Wood, from BCA Partner One Stop, said: “This year’s medallists exemplify the incredible support within our communities, especially during challenging times. We’re honoured to partner with the BCA and play a part in recognising these exceptional individuals.”
The presentation, hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, will be attended by BCA patrons Dame Mary Perkins, founder of Specsavers, and Lord Dholakia. Following the ceremony, medallists will enjoy an open-top bus tour and a certificate presentation at another Westminster venue.
Coastguard rescue teams are made up of volunteers as part of His Majesty’s Coastguard. The team operates a rescue 4×4 and can respond to incidents on the coast and inland. Incidents range from medical assistance, searching for lost and missing persons, cliff rescue, water rescue, mud rescue, and dealing with unexploded ordnance, to name a few.
The Hornsea team responds to emergency calls around the coast 24/7 and attends more than 110 incidents a year on average.
