RNLI Awards – Chichester Observer – Wednesday, 04 February 1931

SELSEY LIFEBOATMEN HONOURED. SPLENDID SEAMANSHIP. “The rescue was effected in most hazardous circumstances, and those who witnessed it said they had never seen better seamanship than that of Selsey Lifeboatmen.” These words were used by Mr. E. G. Arnell. J.P., at a meeting that was held in the Pavilion, Selsey, on Friday last, when the Royal National Lifeboat Institute’s bronze medal was presented to Coxswain Fred Barnes, and framed testimonials on vellum to the crew of the Selsey Lifeboat, for the gallant rescue of two men from the yacht “Lucy B,” in November last. The presentation was made by Mr. S. Ponder, President of the Selsey and Bognor Regis branch of the R.N.L.I, In introducing Mr. Ponder, Mr. Amell said they were proud of the services of the Selsey Lifeboatmen. He was an old lifeboatmen himself, and had been connected with the service for over fifty years. On the night of the rescue, it was blowing a gale from the south-west, but, without a moment’s hesitation, the lifeboat was manned and launched, and the “Lucy B," which was almost in the breakers, was reached and the two men on her were rescued. In making the presentations, Mr. Ponder said that he had witnessed the rescue, and could personally testify to the splendid seamanship of the lifeboatmen (Cheers). . . .. Coxswain Bernes received a testimonial as well the bronze medal, and testimonials were presented George Amell (2nd Coxswain), A. Fullick (bowman), L. Phillips (mechanic), A. Pennicord (assistant mechanic), D. Grant (signalman), S. Barnes, L. Pennicord, and W, Millington (crew). The testimonials which are beautifully executed on vellum, bore the signatures of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales (President of R.N.L.I.) and Sir Godfrey Baring (Chairman). Coxswain Barnes in a few modest words, replied on behalf of himself and the crew. During the evening, lifeboat films were shown, and a musical programme, which had been arranged by Messrs. J. E. Francis and S. B. Arnell, was thoroughly enjoyed. Those contributing were Messrs. Reg. Smith, C. Pratt, Clifford Smith, and R. Smith (at the piano).