EXCEPTIONAL performances of Newquay lifeguards throughout the season have been recognised following their final shift of the year.

Rookie lifeguard of the year was presented to Olive Varlet whilst the most improved lifeguard was awarded to Oshi Baker. Lifeguard of the year was awarded to Olly Malkin and senior lifeguard of the year was Harry Reed.

(L to R) Elenie Shotton, Harry Reed, Sam Coad , Agustin Lanzavecchia and Olly Malkin
(L to R) Elenie Shotton, Harry Reed, Sam Coad , Agustin Lanzavecchia and Olly Malkin

Agustin Lanzavecchia and Oli Malkin won an award for rescue footage captured during the season, which will feature in the BBC 2 RNLI programme Saving Lives at Sea in 2026.

The Gareth Nicholas' Memorial award for excellence was awarded to the lifeguards that featured in the three rescue stories that were aired during the Saving Lives at Sea 2025 series.

(L-R) Lewis Timson awards Agustin Lanzavechhia and Olly Malkin the rescue footage award for 2025, which will feature in 2026 Saving Lives at Sea series
(L-R) Lewis Timson awards Agustin Lanzavechhia and Olly Malkin the rescue footage award for 2025, which will feature in 2026 Saving Lives at Sea series

Six lifeguards were also presented with commendations from the RNLI's medical director for their exceptional treatment of a casualty earlier this year, which included Andy Thomas, Dave Kelly, Harry Pleasants, Olly Malkin, Saul Woodfinden and Sonny Timson. Lead lifeguard supervisor for Newquay,

Lewis Timson, said: “That's a wrap for the 2025 RNLI Newquay lifeguard service. It’s has been a great season, and we are looking forward to 2026 already. We recognised some exceptional performances from our teams after the final shift.

“Well done to all the Newquay team for an excellent season. Thank you to YETI our corporate partners for supplying gifts for our award winners.”