'Amazing experience that I will never forget' – Coastguard volunteer receives MBE

A coastguard volunteer who wants to ‘give back to the community’ has been awarded his MBE by King Charles.

Daniel Thomson has served for HM Coastguard for around ten years with Lytham St Annes Coastguard Rescue Team, as well as working in the Holyhead Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre for around three years.

Currently deputy station officer at Lytham St Annes, Daniel was part of the 2022 New Year Honours.

Daniel Thomson received his MBE supported by 12 year-old son Jacob


Earlier this month he was invited to Windsor Castle to receive his MBE in person from the King.

Following the event Daniel said: “It was a great day, especially as this was the first Investiture Charles has completed as King.”

As part of the ceremony Daniel was given a tour of the castle before being awarded his prestigious honours. 

He also had the opportunity to talk to the Royal about his time with the Coastguard.

Working in the Prince’s Trust department at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, as well as his Coastguard role, Daniel added: “The King was very interested in all of my ventures and asked lots of questions. It was a very heartfelt, interesting conversation with His Majesty.”

Reflecting on what it means to be a Coastguard Rescue Officer, Daniel said: “We’re a busy team dealing with hundreds of incidents every year, but we do it because we want to give back to the community and help people in distress.

“With HM Coastguard celebrating 200 years of saving lives this year, it feels like a special time to receive my MBE. I’ve known about the honours since the end of last year, but the Investiture reminded us all once again how important the work of the Coastguard is across the country.

“It was an amazing experience that I will never forget.”

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