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RNLI Portrush champion John Martin honoured for lifesaving fundraising efforts

  • Writer: Love Ballymena
    Love Ballymena
  • Jul 5
  • 2 min read
RNLI Fundraising volunteer John Martin with Pamela Ballantine.

RNLI Fundraising volunteer John Martin with Pamela Ballantine.


A dedicated RNLI volunteer from Portrush has been recognised for his extraordinary fundraising efforts, after being nominated for Fundraising Volunteer of the Year at the prestigious Chartered Institute of Fundraising Northern Ireland awards.


John Martin, the manager of the RNLI shop in Portrush and a long-time local fundraising champion, was recently invited to a special event at the Titanic Hotel in Belfast in celebration of his nomination.



John’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable. He manages Northern Ireland’s highest-earning RNLI shop, and until recently, chaired the region’s most successful fundraising branch – all on a voluntary basis.


Since joining the Portrush and Portstewart Fundraising Branch in 2014, John has helped raise an impressive £876,870.81 in vital funds for the RNLI. His passion and energy for the cause have embedded the RNLI firmly within the social fabric of Portrush.



He regularly enlists support from the community, hosting events in venues ranging from Portrush Yacht Club and local golf clubs to pubs and community spaces. His calendar of engaging fundraising activities – including quizzes, fish suppers, wine tastings, and Mayday Mile walks – ensures RNLI awareness and support remain high year-round.


In 2023, despite the shop being closed for three months due to renovations, John ensured it continued trading by launching a pop-up initiative. His creativity and commitment helped the shop generate £63,293 in sales that year. In 2024, the shop went on to reach a record-breaking £72,000 – the highest sales income in its history.



But John’s impact stretches far beyond financial figures. He is widely praised for his kindness and the supportive environment he fosters for fellow volunteers.


One volunteer, who joined the RNLI during the uncertainty of the 2020 lockdown, credited John with helping to rebuild their confidence and create a sense of community at a time when it was needed most.



Kirstin Bews, RNLI Community Fundraising Manager for Northern Ireland, paid tribute to John’s dedication:


“John is quite simply an exceptional man and a joy to work with. Nothing is too much trouble, and we are delighted that he was nominated for this prestigious award.”


The RNLI’s tagline “More Than a Shop” is embodied perfectly by John Martin’s selfless efforts – a true community lifesaver on land, helping those at sea.


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