A SCARBOROUGH lifeboat volunteer has been honoured with a rare bravery award for his efforts in trying to save a man’s life.

Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) helmsman Rudi Barman, 36, will be recognised with the RNLI bronze medal for gallantry after he was involved in a dangerous service in rough conditions in February earlier this year.

On February 22 the Scarborough RNLI inshore lifeboat launched in to near gale force winds and treacherous sea conditions in the dark in an attempt to rescue Andrew McGeown who had got in to difficulties after going into the sea to rescue his dog.

The crew, which included four other members, saw Mr McGeown face down in the water against the sea wall. 

After a struggle to get the lifeboat close enough in the poor conditions and shallow water Mr McGeown was eventually pulled out of the water and one of the crew members, Craig Burnett, began performing CPR as the lifeboat rushed back to the harbour. Despite the efforts of the crew and emergency services Mr McGeown died later that day.

RNLI operations director George Rawlinson praised the crew members for their efforts.

He said: “Although this rescue was marked by tragedy, it is a testament to their team work and tenacity that they did everything they could to reach the casualty and bring him ashore.

“I’d like to thank Rudi, his lifeboat crew and shore crew for their courage and dedication.”

Crew members Craig Burnett and Adam Beston will be given framed letters of thanks signed by the RNLI chairman while crew members Dr Peter Billingsley and Jason Hedges will receive letters of thanks from the RNLI operations director.

Rudi Barman said: “This was a difficult rescue in very challenging conditions and we did everything we could for Andrew so we were all devastated we were unable to save him.

“My thoughts are with his family and friends at what I’m sure is still a very difficult time for them.”

Andrew McGeown’s family and friends are now working with the RNLI to create a legacy fund in his memory.