OBAN Lifeboat’s operations manager Billy Forteith has been awarded the RNLI’s gold badge in recognition of his long service and dedication, following 41 years with the charity.
Billy first joined the RNLI as a volunteer at Oban Lifeboat station in 1975, just a few years after the station itself was founded in 1972.
At the time the station would have been operating its first lifeboat, the 18ft McLachlan inshore lifeboat providing only seasonal cover during the summer months.