Badlands ripper Martyn Ward, better know as ‘Turn’ or ‘Turnip’ has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for lifeguarding over 40 years.


‘Turn’ on the right right along with another St Agnes legend ‘Bunty’ (left) guarding in the 70’s.

Turn started lifeguarding his local beaches Porthtowan, Chapel Porth and St Agnes in the 70’s when they were run by the local council and has since worked as an RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor for 19 years managing the same area along the north Cornish coast.


He’s still out shredding every day too. Photo Lee Trigg

‘I am so surprised and thankful that I have been nominated for this prestigious accolade. I was so not expected this, especially when the country is experiencing such challenging times and there are so many people working so hard to keep us all safe.

“I would like to accept this award, not just for myself, but also on behalf of the community, for all of those who over the years have contributed in making our seas, coast and beaches safer, whether they are a member of the public giving others safety advice, our Coastguard team, on our RNLI lifeboats, an RNLI lifeguard or a Surf Lifesaving Club member, voluntary and professional side by side.”

Well done mate!