Burnham-On-Sea Coastguards bid farewell to a popular member of their group on Friday evening (June 22nd) who has retired from his role.
Long-serving Burnham Coastguard member Dave Ilsley, pictured centre, has retired after 11 years of active duties.
More than 100 friends from Burnham Coastguards, BARB and the RNLI attended a special party at Burnham Sailing Club to mark his retirement.
Regional Coastguard Coastal Safety Manager Peter Mizen and Burnham Station Officer Steve Bird were among those present who praised Dave for his constant enthusiasm and dedication to the role over the years.
A letter from Sir Alan Massey, Coastguard Chief Executive, was read out during the evening when Dave was thanked for his “great efforts and dedication”.
Sir Alan wrote: “I thank you very sincerely for your great team efforts as you retire from the service. You have done great work and I am genuinely grateful to you on behalf of everyone in our agency.”
Dave told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “I am very proud to have been a part of such a great team over the past 11 years. It’s been a privilege to be a Coastguard and I thank everyone for their support and good wishes.”
Dave, who is joining BARB as a volunteer crewmember, also received a Jubilee Medal on Friday from Burnham’s Mayor Ken Smout, as pictured, to mark his service to the emergency services in recent years.
