National Honours for Council Staff
Two members of South Ayrshire Council's Sport and Leisure team have been recognised by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) for their long-standing service and commitment to promoting water safety.
Jennifer Prentice, Facility Supervisor at Prestwick Leisure Club, and Alistair Jardine, Facility Supervisor at Maybole Leisure Club, received awards as part of the RLSS UK Service Honour scheme. Their awards acknowledge their dedication in their roles with the Council and through wider lifesaving activity in the community.
Jennifer received the RLSS UK Service Honour - Certification of Thanks (8 Years' Service), recognising her sustained contribution to water safety and lifesaving training.
Alistair received two accolades - the RLSS UK Service Honour - 1st Bar to Service Cross (25 Years' Service) and the RLSS UK Merit Honour - Medal of Distinction.
He received his awards at the National RLSS UK ceremony held at the British Motor Museum, celebrating those who have made a significant impact in reducing drowning across the UK and Ireland.
Both supervisors have played a vital role in water safety education across South Ayrshire. Alongside their day-to-day responsibilities, Jennifer and Alistair have been instrumental in delivering lifeguard training and running Rookie Lifeguard courses for 8-12-year-olds.
Their training has directly supported lifeguards across Council leisure centres, several of whom have successfully carried out water rescues when adults or children have experienced difficulty.
Alistair said: "It's a privilege to work alongside the RLSS UK and South Ayrshire Council. Training future lifeguards is something I'm very proud of, and receiving this recognition means a great deal."
Jennifer said: "Helping people develop lifesaving skills — from young Rookie Lifeguards to fully qualified lifeguards — is incredibly rewarding. I'm honoured to receive this recognition from RLSS UK."
South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Leisure and Community Services, Councillor Chris Cullen said: "These awards reflect the dedication of our Sport and Leisure staff. Jennifer and Alistair have helped train countless lifeguards over the years, and their commitment to lifesaving education is something we are extremely proud of."
