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Tireless couple praised by RNLI
AN "outstanding" South Tyneside couple have been honoured for their contribution to the town's branch of the RNLI.
Colin and Edna Johnson were given an Outstanding Achievement Award at the RNLI's annual North Region awards ceremony on Sunday at York Racecourse.
Mr Johnson, 74, has been a volunteer for the life-saving charity for a decade.
Both he and his wife Edna, 73, have been members of South Shields Sailing Club for 45 years.
The couple were recognised for their work with RNLI teams who compete in the Great North Run.
For the past nine years they have helped look after the shattered runners after they cross the South Shields finishing line after 13.1 gruelling miles.
Mr Johnson was modest about the couple's award and insisted on giving the credit for the award to the club itself.
He said: "The award is more in recognition of the sailing club.
"The club lets the runners have a shower, a rub-down and refreshments. We just help out. God willing, we'll be there this year too.
"The runners appreciate the service the club provides and they're hoping to double their number of entrants for next year's race."
Mr Johnson also serves the organisation as a sea safety advisor, giving free information and safety checks to yachting enthusiasts in South Tyneside.
The RNLI's events manager, Lisa Rutter, said: "Colin and Edna Johnson have been instrumental in the success of the RNLI's Great North Run post-race reception for our runners for the last nine years.
"Their kindness, tireless hard work and enthusiasm have encouraged many a runner over the finish line and have contributed to over 220,000 raised through this event to date.
"Colin is a keen sailor and sea safety volunteer and we are indebted to Edna for her wonderful cups of tea on our busiest fundraising day of the year."
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Weather for South Shields
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Light sleet showers
Temperature: -1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 1 C to 6 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: West
