Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager, Martin
(Marty) Burt has retired after a dedicated forty years of service to the
Newquay RNLI lifeboats.
Marty was one of the original lifeboat crew members when
the station reopened in 1965. He served on the crew for 20 years until 1985.
On reaching the retirement age for crew he took on the role of Station
Honorary Secretary (SHS) for two years.
After a spell as Deputy Launching Authority, he resumed
the role of Station Honorary Secretary in 1999. During his time as SHS, the
position evolved into its current title, Lifeboat Operations Manager. But
having welcomed the new D Class lifeboat, the Valerie Wilson, last
summer Marty decided it was time to retire from his pager. It marked the end
of an extraordinary voluntary career with the RNLI, but means he now has
time to concentrate on other interests.
Marty hailed from a mariner’s background, working in the
Merchant Navy and as a fisherman. His nautical experience held him in good
stead for his roles as C-Class and D-Class helmsman. During his time he saw
the building of three new lifeboat stations at Newquay, in 1965, 1974 and
again in 1994.
However, Marty still has a vested interest in the
lifeboat as his sons, Eddie and Adam, continue the family tradition which
started with the arrival of Newquay’s first lifeboat in 1860.
All at Newquay Lifeboat Station wish Marty all the best
with his new found peace and quiet.
Simon
Pryce, RNLI Divisional Inspector says:
“Marty's 40 years of service exemplifies the RNLI's strong volunteer
tradition and culture. His commitment to keeping the service running has
been outstanding and not without personal sacrifice. I will miss his
cheerful outlook and can do attitude but I am equally delighted that his
wife and family will have his full attention for the first time in a long
while.”
Gareth Horner, RNLI Lifeboat
Operations Manager, Newquay says:
“In the thirty-one years in which I was privileged to have been an RNLI
colleague of Marty he was always willing to share his deep knowledge and
experience. He worked tirelessly for the Institution and always had the
best interests of Newquay Lifeboat Station at heart. We will all miss his
smiling face but he has truly earned his retirement and we wish him a long
and happy one. This occasion truly marks the end of an era.”
Michael Walker, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager,
Padstow says:
“Marty is respected by those at Padstow Lifeboat Station. He has a
professional knowledge of the sea and nearly 40 years dedication and
experience with the RNLI. These things coupled with his sense of humour have
made him someone it has been a real pleasure to work with.”
