Combining his wealth of knowledge with supportive leadership, he has educated the next generation. He is described by colleagues as a 'devoted, unflinching rock' of the service, who is 'loyal, caring and totally committed to those he line manages'.
After receiving 11 nominations, the judges of the awards hailed him a worthy winner of the unsung hero prize, describing him as a perfect example of the 'selfless service ethos of the control room community'.
Jules Fynn, winner of Young Achiever of the Year
At just 23, Jules has been described as the 'search and rescue guardian of the Thames'. The Senior Maritime Operations Officer works 12 hour shifts, day and night, from Woolwich in London – keeping an eye on the entire river.
The judges almost ran out of words to praise Jules’ extraordinary and outstanding maturity, skill, talent and dedication in taking the lead on very challenging 999 incidents.
Colleagues from the MCA and other emergency services say Jules commands respect and inspires confidence, showing wisdom beyond their years after joining the Coastguard straight after education.
Tom Barnett, winner of the Community Champion Award
Maritime Operations Team Leader Tom was recognised by the judges for going above and beyond, both in his job and in his spare time.
A passionate supporter of water sports, he fundraises and organises events to promote greater awareness of water safety.
Colleagues say he has a 'staggeringly strong commitment to ensuring people at work and within his local community have fair access to life-changing opportunities'.
He also regularly arranges team building meet ups within the MCA.
Outside of work, Tom has organised days for local children across the Gosport area, where they are able to try out water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming and sailing. These children would not normally have had this opportunity.