SIX Milford Haven coastguards with 147 years of combined experience were presented with long service medals on Wednesday (October 2) night.

Carolyn Klass, from Haverfordwest, Nigel Codd, and Barry Scott, both from Fishguard, Barry Skidmore, from Burton, Mark Harrington, from Johnston, and Dave Miller, from Tenby, were awarded the medals for more than 20 years of service to the coastguard.

South Pembrokeshire sector manager Dave Miller was awarded a clasp, as well as a medal, for his 38 years of service.

Chief coastguard Peter Dymond presented the medals at the coastguard station in Milford Haven.

Mr Dymond, who served at Milford Haven Coastguard back in the days when it was based at St Anne’s Head, praised the station for “leading the way” by providing cover for staff elsewhere in the country and “rising above” industrial action as the service modernises operations.

“Between the recipients they have 147 years of experience – you can’t buy that sort of experience,” he said.

“It goes without saying that experienced coastguards are worth their weight in gold.

“I give my thanks for their commitment, loyalty and dedication in providing a service for so many years.

“The fact that we award long service medals clearly demonstrates how much we value our coastguard officers and how much the nation values our coastguard.”

Rescue coordination centre manager Carl Evans said: “It’s a proud moment because it’s the first time we’ve had awards for the staff at Milford Haven.

“Many of the people here served in the Armed services before joining the coastguard, so that’s a lifetime of service to Queen and country.

“People are proud of that tradition and proud to represent her majesty’s coastguard.”

Recipient Carolyn said: “It has been 20 and a half years I have been with the coastguard and I have enjoyed every minute of it.

“Every day is different, you don’t know what you’re going to get.”

Until August 2012 long service medals were only given to volunteers, but full time coastguards are now recognised with the medal, which is awarded under Royal warrant.