Timothy Spall - Actor

Timothy, who has gained international recognition for his role as Peter Pettigrew (Wormtail) in the Harry Potter films, is well-known for his work with British director Mike Leigh in additon to his extensive television credits.
 
Timothy and his wife, Shane, had the opportunity to go afloat with the crew of the Penlee lifeboat in September 2009 and this is what they had to say:
 
"It was a delight and an honour for me to be standing on the bridge of the Penlee lifeboat, with its impressive Coxswain/Mechanic Patrick Harvey, (known to his friends and colleagues as Patch). We were slicing through a considerable short swell at 23 knots, sensing the power and ability of the engines was thrilling, this was further heightened by the knowledge that these machines were created to propel this magnificent vessel of salvation. For my wife Shane and I it will remain a memory which will never be extinguished, particularly because the exhilaration of the experience, was made all the more profound by the realization that the brave and skilful crews’ fundamental desire is the safety of anybody who takes to the sea. What is even more impressive is that the men and women who crew the lifeboats around our coasts are prepared on occasion, to risk their own lives to save the lives of others, in truly treacherous conditions. Ultimately the deeply humbling fact is that the brave men we met yesterday are volunteers, many local fishermen, and they perform this incomparable service without complaint and free of charge, whether the 'shout' is at 2 a.m. or 2 p.m.. My wife and I salute you, with our heads bowed in deep gratitude and heartfelt respect, and in this age of the false celebrity, you are the true stars of our maritime nation."