A VOLUNTEER crewman has been honoured for his 20 years’ service to the Looe Lifeboats. Brian Bowdler was presented with a medal at the Lifeboat Station, and received a letter of commendation from RNLI Chief Executive Paul Boissier. It is the second time Brian has received such a letter of thanks; the first came after Brian helped to save two sailors in a dramatic rescue off Downderry some years ago. The stricken craft was sinking in heavy seas and in fast fading light. Brian, as helm, skillfully manoeuvered the lifeboat to pick up the two crew, who were in the water and in considerable distress. The 46-year-old, who is married with two children and works as a trawler fisherman out of Looe, says he was inspired to join the RNLI following the Penlee disaster of December 1981. Brian said: ‘I thought my skills as a fisherman would contribute toward the role and since joining I am now a regular helm on shouts.’ Operations manager at Looe Lifeboat Station Dave Haines said: ‘Brian is a valuable and highly experienced helm with Looe Lifeboats, and a credit to the team.