Aileen Jones has made RNLI history

Aileen Jones, helmsman of the RNLI's Porthcawl lifeboat in south Wales, led a team which saved a skipper and an injured fisherman in August.

The 41-year-old mother will receive the institution's gallantry medal at a ceremony in London.

Only 20 such medals have been awarded to women, the last one in 1888.

On 24 August, the fishing boat Gower Pride suffered engine failure.

BBC NEWS: VIDEO AND AUDIO Story of the rescue

The conditions were the worst she had experienced while at the helm of the lifeboat.

"On that particular shout the adrenaline kicked in, but you do on occasions get scared when sea conditions are pretty bad," said Mrs Jones.

"Everyone knows what the others are thinking. It is total teamwork."

Aileen used all her skills in leadership and boat-handling Michael Vlasto, RNLI

An RNLI spokeswoman said the lifeboat crew faced "atrocious" sea conditions.

They managed to connect a towline and put crewman Simon Emms on board the fishing vessel.

"At that moment, the Gower Pride was hit by a large breaking wave on the starboard side and was thrown against the lifeboat," the spokesman said.

"Helmsman Jones quickly manoeuvred the vessels apart, and continued - with great skill - to use the inshore lifeboat to keep the rolling fishing vessel away from danger.

'Dangerous seas'

"They began a slow tow against high seas, which at times lifted the bow of the lifeboat precariously out of the water."

The Mumbles all-weather lifeboat - a larger boat - was called to help and the crews transferred the tow.

RNLI operations director Michael Vlasto, said: "Aileen used all her skills in leadership and boat-handling to contend with very dangerous sea conditions.

"Helmsman Jones and her crew were able to save two lives. We owe her, and all involved, a debt of gratitude.

"The RNLI recognises the bravery of ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and I am very proud that Aileen has been awarded the RNLI's Bronze Medal for Gallantry. Aileen should be very proud."

Nursery assistant Mrs Jones is married to Porthcawl's senior helmsman Stephen Jones.

Family tradition

She became a station volunteer shorehelper in 1994, and then a crew member in 1995. She became helmsman herself in 1999.

Now daughter Frances, 17, has joined the crew, and Mrs Jones said she expects son Daniel, 13, to follow suit.

News of the medal left Mrs Jones shocked and proud. "I wouldn't have got this if it wasn't for my crew," she said. "You are only as good as your crew."

She will receive her medal at an RNLI presentation in London in May.

Other crew members will have their efforts recognised, too. Mr Emms will be given the Thanks of the Institution on Vellum, while Steven Knipe and Mark Burtonwood will be presented with Medal Service Badges and certificates.

Coxswain Martin Double of the Mumbles lifeboat will receive a letter of appreciation.