Troon has paid to tribute to the work of a lifeboat volunteer as he retires after 16 years of service.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Troon bid farewell and happy retirement to Ian Donaldson, their D Class mechanic and shore crew member.

Ian said: “I’ve had many memorable moments during my time at Troon lifeboat, but my lasting memory will be the dedication and selflessness of the RNLI volunteers and the amazing support of the public, especially within Troon.”

In 2004, with the arrival of the first D class inshore lifeboat, Troon lifeboat station needed shore crew to assist with the launch and recovery of the new inshore lifeboat. Ian answered this request and has been volunteering with the RNLI in Troon ever since.

For 16 years Ian, as D class mechanic, worked closely with the station’s full time Coxswain and Mechanic to ensure the D Class inshore lifeboat was always ready to launch, carrying out routine maintenance and repairs when necessary.

As RNLI shore crew Ian was on call 24/7 with the lifeboat crew, answering his pager on callouts to assist with the launch and recovery of all-weather lifeboat and inshore lifeboats.

Troon Lifeboat Coxswain Joe Millar said: ‘For the past 16 years, Ian has been a respected and dependable RNLI volunteer. On behalf of everyone at Troon Lifeboat Station I would like to wish Ian well on his retirement and I would like to thank him for the dedication he has shown over the years.’

Troon residents thanked Ian for his service and wished him all the best in his retirement.

Katherine Self said: “Well done Ian, brilliant contribution.

“Be a shame not to see you driving round town in the Landy.”

Stefan Gibson said: “Ian, it was great working with you all those years back.

“All the best in the retired times ahead.”

RNLI is the largest charity that saves lives at sea around the coasts of the United Kingdom and elsewhere.

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