A year ago, Pembroke Ladies Lifeboat Guild were told by Norman Edwards, director of The Old King's Arms Hotel, Pembroke, that he, Mark Wheeler and Louis Scott were running in the 30th anniversary Athens Classic Marathon on November 11, in support of Pembroke Guild's fundraising for the RNLI.

Guild members were quite overwhelmed at this amazing idea and unbelievable commitment. Mark and Louis are the son and son-in-law of their vice-president, Shirley Wheeler, owner of The Old King's Arms Hotel.

These gentlemen were determined to undertake the whole event at their own expense and amassed funds globally on line and through local sponsorship at the hotel in Pembroke. The total amount raised was a phenomenal £23,400.

A celebration of Mark, Louis and Norman's achievement was hosted recently at the Old King's Arms Hotel by Guild vice-president Shirley Wheeler, her daughter Sarah and grandchildren. Certainly an evening to remember!

Mr. Johnny Allen-Mirehouse, hon. secretary and operations manager of Angle Lifeboat Station, and Mr. Colin Williams, RNLI operations manager West, both kindly attended the celebration to present RNLI certificates of thanks and shields to the 'RNLI athletes'.

Johnny and Colin individually expressed their gratitude and amazement at the sum raised by these gentlemen, stressing that dedicated effort such as theirs would play a huge part in keeping lifeboats on the water, research and development into new boats and equipment, thus enabling the RNLI to maintain a world class free 24/7 coastal and inland rescue service, plus seasonal lifeguard service in the UK and Ireland.

Pembroke Ladies Lifeboat Guild members also wish to thank The Old King's Arms Hotel, their staff, guests and local residents for their constant support of RNLI fundraising.