THREE Wirral lifeguards who rescued four people from a capsized pleasure boat have been honoured for their efforts.

Cameron Jacobie, Hayley Webb and Holly Barden were presented with the prestigious Alison Saunders Award following an incident on April 17 last year.

That day, a pleasure craft had capsized 300m offshore at Harrison Drive Beach with four people onboard. Two had decided to attempt to swim to shore, whilst the other two stayed with the capsized vessel.

RNLI lifeguards Hayley and Holly, who were working at Harrison Drive beach, alerted the Coastguard to the situation and Holly entered the water with a rescue board.

Cameron Jacobie was working at neighbouring New Brighton beach and was tasked to the scene to respond with a Rescue Water Craft.

Making her way on a rescue board, Holly reached the two casualties who were swimming away from the capsized vessel and assisted them to a place where they could safely return to shore. After ensuring that two of the casualties were safe, Holly returned to the capsized vessel to help.

When Holly and Cameron arrived at the scene of the capsized pleasure boat, the two remaining casualties were distressed and shouting for help. The casualties were assisted onto the Rescue Water Craft and safely transported back to shore.

The RNLI’s inshore lifeboat from New Brighton station arrived shortly after and safely recovered the pleasure craft to a safe location.

Cameron, Hayley and Holly were presented with the Alison Saunders Award by Stuart Wallace, RNLI Regional Lifesaving Lead during a special ceremony at the Wirral RNLI Support Centre on Thursday night (September 14).

The accolade is presented by the charity each year for a single notable rescue across the UK and Ireland, recognising the skill and bravery of RNLI lifeguards.

Pete Rooney, RNLI Lifeguard Lead says: "RNLI Lifeguards Holly, Hayley and Cameron are receiving this award to recognise the exemplary decision making, timely communications and excellent teamwork between the two lifeguard units.

"Of particular note, was the calmness and professionalism displayed by Holly Barton. Even though this incident occurred during her first shift, she displayed skill and bravery beyond her experience."

The lifeguards will receive a glass trophy inscribed with their names and framed certificates.

A sum of £500 is also given to the awardees to be used to further their lifeguard training experience.