Lifeboat crew get pampered (From Barry And District News)

Lifeboat crew get pampered

BARRY Dock Lifeboat Crew swapped their seafaring kit for a couple of fluffy dressing gowns on St David's Day.

The team were invited up to London for the day on March 1, by the producers of the cult-hit reality television show The Salon.

Programme-makers offered them a day of pampering and relaxation after hearing about their record number of rescues during 2003.

RNLI volunteers Peter Andrews, 43, a seaside officer with the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Dean Caldwell, 33, an emergency ambulance technician, John McAllister, 27, a butcher, and Paul Miller, 38, a plasterer, all appeared on the show.

Peter said: "To be fair they really looked after us. It was fantastic to get some recognition.

"We spent most of the day relaxing in the sauna and steam room area.

"We are all volunteers and are on call around the clock, every day of the week. I have been a member of the Barry crew for six years and have loved every minute of it."

Jody Ballard, the RNLI's regional education officer who accompanied the crew on the set, had his hair cut and dyed by the Salon team.

He said: "The crew had an excellent day at the Salon. We were treated like heroes. The Salon staff were warm and welcoming making the crew feel relaxed after all their hard work during 2003."

It was the crew's busiest year to date.

RNLI lifeboats in Wales launched a total of 1,062 times during 2003, rescuing a staggering 1,061 people.

The RNLI is a registered charity, which continues to rely on voluntary contributions and legacies for its income.

Barry Dock lifeboat station was established in 1901.

Twelve RNLI medals for gallantry have been awarded, one gold, three silver and eight bronze, the last award being made in 1941. In 2001, Barry Dock lifeboat station celebrated its 100th year of lifesaving.