Man surprises partner with lifeboat proposal

Emma Grimshaw,BBC News, West of England
Mike Lang Photography Man on one knee proposing by seaMike Lang Photography
Kelly was very surprised by the proposal

A man surprised his partner with a unique proposal using the help of his fellow lifeboats volunteers.

The couple were walking along Burnham-on-Sea's beach on Sunday when a boat appeared on the waves with the message "Marry me, Kelly?".

Lyndon, who had been dating his partner for more than 20 years, had spent weeks planning the big moment with crews from Burnham RNLI, where he volunteers.

"Kelly was struggling to read the banner," he said. "She realised it was for her by which point I was on one knee and and asking her the question, which she was, I think, pleasantly surprised."

Mike Lang Photography Crew members holding up sign saying 'Marry me?'Mike Lang Photography
The banner appeared while the couple were walking along the beach

As well as the RNLI crew, Lyndon also roped in family members to ensure the bride-to-be did not suspect anything.

"Her sister and her husband came on the walk with us, just to make it look a bit more natural," he said.

They have decided take things slowly when it comes to booking their wedding.

"There is no rush," said Lyndon. "It's taken so long to get to this point, so let's not rush the next stage."

Both their families are 'absolutely delighted'.

Crew member Mark Smith was one of the volunteers holding the banner.

"I've never seen anything like it in the 14 years I've been there," he said.

"She was quite overwhelmed."

Lyndon added that the conditions were perfect because the crew had been returning from training and the tide was low.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.