9 January 2015 The National Coastwatch Institution has been awarded the Royal Cruising Club’s prestigious Medal for Services to Cruising, in recognition of their contribution to sea safety.

In a letter to NCI Chairman Alan Richards, broadcaster and journalist Paul Heiney, RCC Vice Commodore, said: “Every year, we make awards to people and organisations outside the Club who we believe have made a special contribution to cruising.

“In recognition of your first twenty years, and also the growing contribution you are making to the safety of yachts at sea, we are awarding the National Coastwatch Institution this year’s Medal for Services to Cruising, which we very much hope you will accept.”

In response, Alan commented: “I am delighted to accept this recognition of our work on behalf of the two thousand or so volunteers who make the whole operation possible. I know how much it means to them to see that their efforts are appreciated and there can be no better example of that appreciation than this award from an organisation with an enviable history of cruising.”

The medal will be presented at the Royal Cruising Club Annual Dinner at the Royal Thames Yacht Club in London on March 5.

Paul Heiney is pictured here with NCI Trustees Ian Whalley and Richard Hews during his visit to the NCI stand on the opening day of the London Boat Show