The Duke of Kent marked a major milestone for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution this week, welcoming a group of dedicated RNLI lifeguards to Kensington Palace.
The 90-year-old royal, who remains one of the monarchy’s most devoted working members despite his age, hosted the special reception to celebrate 25 years of the RNLI’s lifeguarding service.
It paid tribute to the men and women who protect beachgoers across the United Kingdom.
Photographs from the event showed the Duke looking smart in a navy blazer, pale blue shirt and tan chinos, leaning on a walking stick as he greeted guests.
Among those recognised was Lead Lifeguard Supervisor Matty McLeod, whose quick thinking saved the life of Londoner Joanna Hicks after she was caught in a powerful rip current at Newgale Beach in Pembrokeshire.
Although he was off duty at the time, McLeod immediately sprang into action after finding Joanna unconscious and face down in the water.
He brought her safely back to shore before performing CPR, helping give her the chance to make a full recovery.
Joanna returned to personally present McLeod with the Thanks of the Institution Award for Gallantry, standing alongside the Duke of Kent to recognise the bravery that changed her life.
2026-08-01 22:07:00
