On the very first patrol of the season at Perranporth, Sam Stephens was faced with a high-pressure, multi-casualty rescue in one of the beach’s most dangerous areas — “the gap” — under large swell and high tide conditions.

A family of five had entered the water and quickly found themselves in serious difficulty. With the beach packed and additional swimmers at risk, Sam had to make rapid decisions while maintaining oversight of an evolving scene.

Working alongside experienced surfers and fellow patrol members, all swimmers were successfully brought back to shore. But the incident did not end there. Several casualties began showing signs consistent with secondary drowning, hypothermia and acute stress reactions.

Sam immediately called 999, coordinated with Coastguard and ambulance crews, administered oxygen and set clear priorities for treatment. He managed crowd control, reassured distressed casualties and maintained composure while emergency services mobilised.

What stood out most was Sam’s calm authority. Despite his young age, he demonstrated maturity, leadership and clinical awareness beyond expectation.

Those present recognised that without his clear thinking and decisive action, the outcome could have been very different.

For exceptional leadership under pressure, we commend Sam Stephens.