A lifeboat crew has been officially commended for saving a man’s life.

Helmsman Ian Smith and crew members Peter Birthright and Steven Cardew were all highly praised in a letter written by Michael Vlast, who is head of operations at the RNLI.

The trio, who are based at the lifeboat station off Royal Pier Road, were thanked for their dedication and professionalism in helping a man who was stuck in deep mud on the banks of the River Thames in November last year.

Despite being in grave danger the man was uncooperative, forcing the crew to work even harder and against his wishes in order to bring him to safety.

Helmsman Ian Smith attached himself to a line and, using a stretcher as a mat across the mud, left the lifeboat and approached the casualty. Crew member Steven Cardew also left the lifeboat to assist with the reluctant man, and both had to cut off the rucksack he was wearing in order to manoeuvre him onto the stretcher.

In the letter Mr Vlasto paid tribute to the crew, stating: “He (the casualty) was prone, belligerent and very unwilling to be rescued. He declined any assistance and wished to be left alone.”

Mr Vlasto also tipped his hat to the courage and calm professionalism of the crew for their lifesaving efforts in such difficult circumstances.