RNLI volunteers in Angle and Tenby have thanked Valero Pembroke Refinery, following another vital donation of fuel oil during the busy summer season.

The regular gift, which was introduced in 2005, has helped fuel hundreds of rescues around the Pembrokeshire coast.

Last year, RNLI lifeboats from Tenby launched 72 times and rescued 47 people, while Angle lifeboats launched 40 times and rescued 48 people.

Lewis Creese, coxswain at Angle RNLI Lifeboat Station, said: “Fuel is one of the RNLI charity’s greatest costs and naturally we see an increase in consumption during the summer months.

“During this time our volunteer crews are busier than every saving lives at sea.”

Figures released by the RNLI this month show that 65 lives were saved by Wales’ RNLI lifeboat crews and lifeguards in 2013.

“Without fuel we wouldn’t have been able to get to these people and bring them to safety – it’s a vital ingredient in what we do,” added Mr Creese.

The RNLI is also very grateful to KP Thomas fuel distribution for collecting the free fuel and delivering to both Tenby and Angle without charge.

Valero public affairs manager Stephen Thornton said: “Safety is Valero’s number one priority, and while in Pembrokeshire we are very fortunate to be able to enjoy such a stunning coastline, we rely on the RNLI to help keep us and our families safe at sea.

“Providing free fuel is Valero’s way of paying tribute to the RNLI’s brave volunteers who keep people living, working and visiting Pembrokeshire safe all year round.”

To find out more about the RNLI’s Respect The Water campaign, please visit: www.rnli.org/respectthewater