Bembridge RNLI Sees New Leadership as Steve Simmonds Steps Down After 15 Years
Steve Simmonds Passes the Torch
After 15 years steering the Bembridge RNLI lifeboat, Steve Simmonds has retired, handing over command to local hero Guy Willing. Steve’s RNLI journey began in 1987 as a boat builder before he joined the Bembridge crew in 1996 and took charge as Coxswain in 2003.
Steve said, “I am much looking forward to fishing and exploring the UK with my wife Lyn and our dog Milly in our motorhome. I’m proud of my RNLI service and confident Guy will be an excellent Coxswain – after all, I helped train him for the role!”
Meet Guy Willing: New Bembridge Lifeboat Coxswain
Guy Willing, a true islander since 1974, has officially taken up the helm. Educated locally at Bembridge Primary, Bembridge Middle, and Sandown High, Guy served five years with the Royal Engineers, clocking tours in the Falklands, Belize, Germany, Denmark, and Cyprus.
After 10 years at Southern Electric, he switched careers to work for Associated British Ports as 2nd Coxswain, then Marine Officer, navigating 10,000 to 15,000 miles annually to guide around 1,000 ships in all weathers.
A Lifelong Connection with RNLI
Guy’s RNLI roots go deep. At just 10 years old, he began by cleaning brass on the Solent Class Lifeboat ‘Jack Shayler and the Lees’. He served as volunteer crewman on the inshore and all-weather lifeboats between 1994 and 1998, then rejoined in 2008, expanding his skills including Assistant Mechanic.
With over 150 rescues under his belt, Guy’s passion for saving lives is crystal clear.
Passion for Sailing and the Sea
Not just a lifeguard but a seasoned sailor, Guy owns a Nicholson 31 yacht he often sails single-handed. In 2016, he completed the daring Jester Challenge, sailing non-stop from Plymouth to Cowes via Ireland, the Scillies, and Fastnet Rock.
He regularly sails to France, the Channel Islands, and the West Country. Outside of the water, Guy cycles 60 miles a week commuting to work.
On his new role, Guy said: “Becoming Coxswain has been a lifetime ambition. I look forward to working with Bryan Jones, our Lifeboat Mechanic, and all our volunteers to continue Bembridge’s 151-year mission of saving lives at sea.”
