A BRADFORD on Avon man was honoured for over 25 years of dedicated service to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

John Box, of Spencer's Orchard, was awarded a gold award at a ceremony in Worcester on June 22 for his outstanding contribution to the charity he loves.

The 70-year-old has been chairman of the Devizes RNLI branch since 1999 was overjoyed at the accolade.

"It is such an honour and very humbling. It was a wonderful feeling to be recognised like this," said Mr Box, who stepped down from his chairman role this month but will still serve as a committee member.

"I feel fortunate to have been awarded this from a charity that gives back so much to people and, I am proud to say, is the world leader in life boat technology. I am extremely grateful to them."

Adele Fuller, RNLI Area Manager for West Midlands said: "Volunteers like John are the driving force behind all of the RNLI’s lifesaving work. Our lifeboat crews, lifeguards and flood rescue teams can save lives because we have the unwavering support of our fundraisers."