Volunteer Gerry's on the run for Barry Dock Lifeboat appeal (From Barry And District News)

Volunteer Gerry's on the run for Barry Dock Lifeboat appeal

4:40pm Thursday 11th October 2012 in News By Sharon Harris

A BARRY lifeboatman will trade in waves for terra firma, when he pounds the streets in the Cardiff Half Marathon on Sunday (October 14).

Dow Corning occupational health nurse, Gerry Adams is aiming to raise funds towards the £10,000 RNLI Barry Dock Lifeboat Pontoon Appeal, and hopes his land-based exertions - his first in 40 years - will help steer the appeal towards its target.

Gerry has completed 53 years of volunteering work in Barry, with 33 years on the lifeboat team - 18 of them at the sharp end on the sea.

He started volunteering at the age of 10 as a St John Ambulance cadet, and became a founder member of the St John Lifeguards that started patrolling Barry Island in 1966.

He joined the RNLI in 1979 and also joined the South Wales Ambulance Service (NHS) Trust Community First Responders more than five years ago. Gerry, 63, said: "The last time I ran anything like a marathon was in my early 20s, and now 40 years later, I find myself volunteering to do the Cardiff Half Marathon!

"I have served with some incredible people in my time, and continue to support the present day crew and other volunteers who help to keep the station running.

"I was a St John Lifeguard from 1966 to 1987 and always believed in prevention methods, but people still get into difficulties. "I am so pleased that the RNLI Lifeguards are now at Whitmore Bay, Llantwit and Southerndown during the summer."

He added: "I must thank my wife and children, because without their help and understanding, I would not have been able to carry on with my hobbies."

Anyone who can donate to the Pontoon appeal, should send donations to Gerry Adams at 44 Port Road East, Barry CF62 9PT.