Medals for crew who rescued 100 from shipwreck

Four sailors who made a perilous night-time journey across the Mediterranean Sea to rescue more than 100 people have been recognised for their bravery.

The crew of a luxury yacht answered a mayday call from a sinking migrant vessel off the coast of Greece in June 2023.

Captain Richard Kirkby and his crew of Ben Bramwell, Trystan Tanner and Ashley West picked up 104 survivors.

The men are set to receive the Merchant Navy Medal for their actions.

The Adriana, which was heading to Italy, was thought to be carrying up to 750 migrants when it sank on the night of 14 June last year. Only 104 people survived.

Cpt Kirkby, from Exeter in Devon, Mr Bramwell from Loughborough in Leicestershire, Mr Tanner from Bicester in Oxfordshire and Mr West from Worcester have been recognised "for services to support, welfare, and rescue" and will receive their medals at a ceremony on 5 November.

Cpt Kirkby said: "After half a century at sea from Cadet to Master Mariner, working and living in an industry I care passionately about, I am honoured and humbled to receive such a prestigious award.

"The award belongs to every member of my crew who rescued 100 souls last year near Greece in horrific circumstances.

"This medal serves as a reminder that as seafarers we may be called upon at any time to help others, and I accept it on behalf of all those who dedicate themselves to the safety of life at sea."

The four men are among nine recipients of the medal.

Sharon Coveney, deputy chief executive of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, said: "The nine recipients are all unsung heroes and are hugely deserving to receive a medal of this high stature - we are thrilled for them all.

"Their unwavering commitment and loyalty to the industry is truly inspiring."

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