Honouring a Founder: Neil Dalton Recognised for over 43 Years of Service

ESRA Honorary President Neil Dalton MBE (left) receives an award from Chair Antony Hope

At last week’s Wednesday training session (25 June 2025), ESRA’s newly appointed Chair, Antony Hope, presented our longest-serving member Neil Dalton with a special award in recognition of over four decades of dedicated service.

Neil, the last remaining founder member of ESRA, has been a cornerstone of the organisation since its inception. Over the years, he has served in multiple roles — including Chair, Vice Chair, Training Officer, and as first Helm (or Coxswain) — shaping the team’s values, training, and direction.

Presenting the award, Antony paid tribute to Neil’s unwavering commitment to the lifeboat, the crew, and the wider community. “It’s hard to put into words the impact Neil has had over the past 43 years,” he said. “Over four decades, he guided, trained, and supported generation after generation of crew — leaving a legacy that continues to shape the team today”.

Now formally recognised as ESRA’s Honorary President, Neil remains a much-loved figure within the team. The award was a small gesture of thanks from a group deeply grateful for everything he has given — and for the foundation he helped build, which continues to guide us today.