A council lifeguard has been honoured with one of the highest accolades in his trade.
Alistair Jardine, one of South Ayrshire's longest serving pool hands, has received the Long Service Medal from the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS) UK.
Since joining Girvan Swimming Pool as a qualified lifeguard in the early 1980s, he has gone on to become a cornerstone of the county's leisure scene.
Alistair became a member of Girvan Lifesaving Club and the RLSS and has progressed in his career from a lifeguard, to lifeguard trainer, to a national trainer assessor.
He now oversees all training centres for the Pool Lifeguard Awards.
Alistair attended a ceremony at Worcester Cathedral where he received the Service Cross Medal in recognition of over 20 years’ service with the RLSS.
He said: “It is a privilege to work with the RLSS and South Ayrshire Council.
"I can’t count how many lifeguards I’ve put through these awards over the years, and to be recognised for my service is outstanding.”
South Ayrshire Council's spokesman for culture, Councillor Chris Cullen, added: “This is a fantastic achievement and I’d like to congratulate Alistair for receiving this medal.
“The skills that people can learn from working as a lifeguard, such as CPR, first aid, communication skills and teamwork are so valuable, and I’m sure Alistair has made a difference to many young people who have gone through their training.
"He is a credit to the council’s Sport and Leisure team and should be extremely proud of his achievement.”
If you’d like to become a lifeguard, or get involved in lifesaving, email slgadminteam@south-ayrshire.gov.uk
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