Long-serving Penrith RNLI fundraising volunteer honoured in King’s Birthday Honours with a British Empire Medal

A dedicated RNLI volunteer from Penrith has been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours with a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her outstanding voluntary service to the lifesaving charity.

Brenda Couzens, former Chair of the Penrith RNLI Fundraising Branch, has devoted more than 28 years to supporting the RNLI’s mission to save lives at sea. Over nearly three decades, Brenda has taken on a variety of roles within the branch, including committee member and branch secretary, helping to raise thousands of pounds to support RNLI lifeboat crews and lifeguards.

In 2004, Brenda became Chair of the Penrith RNLI Fundraising Branch, a role she held with dedication and commitment until her retirement at the end of last year.

This well-deserved honour recognises Brenda’s long-standing contribution to the RNLI and the vital role she has played in supporting the charity’s lifesaving work.

Dani Beckett, RNLI Community Manager for the Cumbria area said:

‘Brenda’s commitment over nearly 30 years has made a lasting impact on the RNLI. It’s not just our front-line lifeboat crew and lifeguards who save lives at sea, without the incredible effort of dedicated fundraisers like Brenda, our crews could not train and launch to those in need. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication and are delighted to see her recognised with this honour.’

Eight RNLI volunteers and staff, including Brenda have been recognised in The King’s Birthday Honours. Peter Sparks, RNLI Chief Executive says: ‘I am always astounded by the dedication of our volunteers and staff and these eight are testament to the commitment demonstrated by so many of our people.  

‘Over 70 years of selfless service is truly remarkable, and Les Coe is by no means alone in this achievement; so many of our volunteers give decades of their time to saving lives at sea. 

‘Whatever their role, they are all lifesavers and the RNLI couldn’t do what we do without them powering our frontline services with passion, talent and kindness. 

‘My heartfelt congratulations to these eight Honours recipients, and as we enter our peak summer season, my thanks go to the thousands of volunteers who give their time so generously to the RNLI.’