The RNLI has unveiled two special plaques as a token of gratitude to the Pembroke Refinery which has kindly agreed to provide marine fuel for Tenby and Angle RNLI lifeboats for another year.

Representatives from Valero met with RNLI representatives from both stations at Tenby RNLI Lifeboat Station on Tuesday to celebrate the historic relationship which was developed with the refinery almost a decade ago.

Valero was keen to carry on the tradition of providing the fuel to both RNLI lifeboat stations after taking over the Pembroke site in 2011. In addition to providing this year's fuel, Valero officials also announced that both stations will look forward to the arrangement continuing into 2013.

The gift of marine fuel will help run both Tamar class RNLI lifeboats and ensure they are well stocked to respond to calls for help off the Pembrokeshire coast for approximately 12 months. Last year, Tenby and Angle all-weather lifeboats rescued 420 people and saved 19 lives.

The Haven Waterway is home to the deepwater access required for oil refining and the coastline is well-served by the presence of the RNLI.

Valero vice-president and Pembroke Refinery general manager, Ed Tomp, was delighted with the plaques - one to be mounted at Tenby and the other at Angle RNLI Lifeboat Stations.

He met with volunteers from both lifeboat stations before being given a VIP tour of the Tamar class lifeboat at Tenby - the first Tamar class lifeboat to be stationed on the UK and Irish coast.

Mr. Tomp said: "The refinery is delighted to support the work of the RNLI around the South West coast of Wales with our donation of fuel to the two lifeboat stations of Angle and Tenby. We are very pleased to be able to assist the work of the RNLI in this way."

The charity is also delighted that local business KP Thomas and Son have agreed to repeat their support by continuing to deliver the fuel free of charge to both lifeboat stations.

Jessica Lee, RNLI community fundraising manager, said: "The RNLI is thrilled that Valero has once again agreed to supply Tenby and Angle lifeboats with free fuel in 2013 to carry out their lifesaving work. The charity is also delighted that local business KP Thomas and Son have agreed to repeat their support by continuing to deliver the fuel free of charge to both lifeboat stations."