Casgliadau Arlein

Awarded to Ezekiel Couth for gallantry in saving life at sea, during the wrecking of the "MADELINE" in Torbay, 11th Jan. 1866.

‘Board of Trade Bronze Medal: Jany 11 1866, During a violent gale a large number of vessels were wrecked in Torbay and many lives were lost. Several persons rendered valuable assistance in saving life but more especially C. Bartlett, E. Barler, A.G. Wyat & E. Couth. The first named was lowered over the cliff by means of a rope & the other men swam with ropes to vessels & by their exertions several lives were saved – while great risk was incurred in consequence of the strength of the gale & the darkness of the night. We gave to each of these men a Bronze Medal.’ (Board of Trade memorandum on rewards for saving life at sea - MT 9/29/W3202)

(Source: For those in Peril: Civil decorations and lifesaving awards at the National Museums & Galleries of Wales by Edward Besly)