There was a standing ovation for the crew of the Hastings lifeboat when Hastings Borough Council met last night.

Members of the crew were publicly thanked by council leader Peter Chowney for their bravery when launched to look for a missing surfboarder during Storm Ciara on Sunday.

The video of the Shannon class lifeboat, the RNLB Richard and Caroline Colton, almost capsizing as it tried to return to shore made national news, and has received millions of hits on social media.

Mr Chowney said: “It is only right that we recognise the incredible bravery of the crew. I listened as Coxswain Mark Tewkesbury gave a most dignified interview on World at One, refusing to comment on the surfboarder, making the point that their job is to go out and rescue anyone in trouble at sea.

“But the public do need to think about the consequences of their actions, as they do put the lives of the rescuers at risk. I would like to pay tribute to the crew, all volunteers, for their tremendous bravery on Sunday.”

The crew then received a standing ovation from all councillors, officers, and members of the public at the meeting.

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