Sidmouth: Beer HM Coastguard team meets Prince Charles

Beer's HM Coastguard Rescue Team met the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall this week on Wednesday 20 July for the Coastguard's 200th anniversary celebration.

Charles and Camilla came to Torre Abbey Meadows and met with coastguards from across the county. They saw a fixed-wing aircraft in action, met the crew of one of the helicopters, and were given gifts for their grandchildren alongside cutting a celebratory cake.

The Prince of Wales is Honorary Commodore to HM Coastguard.

Cutting the cake (Maritime and Coastguard Agency)

A spokesperson for Exmouth's HM Coastguard Rescue Team said: "It was a real honour to meet the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Torre Abbey Meadow to recognise the contribution made by staff and volunteers to maritime and coastal safety and to celebrate 200 years of HM Coastguard.

"The royals enjoyed a tour and review of vehicles and equipment.

"They spoke to many coastguards and took a great interest in our back stories as volunteers.

"Our colleagues and friends from both Beer and Dawlish were also presented to the royal party."

The current longest-serving member of HM Coastguard, Keith Dare-Williams, who has been with the service for 57 years, was also awarded a Queen's Jubilee medal.