Legendary Volunteer George Chastney Quits Cowes RNLI Press Role After 20+ Years
After over two decades as the voice of Cowes RNLI, George Chastney has handed in his press officer badge. His journey began in 2003 with Cowes Rescue, the town’s independent lifeboat service, before he stayed on when RNLI took the helm in 2008.
Sea-Smart Ex-Journalist and Lifesaver
George isn’t just any volunteer. As a former journalist, he covered some of the sea’s darkest disasters, including the 1987 Red Funnel hydrofoil crash, a tragedy that helped launch Cowes’ own lifeboat service. The sea saved him too—he owes his life to an RNLI rescue after a terrifying cliff fall in Ilfracombe at 15.
His stint in the RAF was full of close calls, from a near-landing disaster to a hair-raising balloon crash over the Isle of Wight. These brushes with danger only stoked his passion for rescue crews. More than just press chief, George was a fundraising dynamo and a steadfast lifesaving advocate.
Emotional Send-Off for Lifeboat Legends
Last week’s farewell ceremony was packed with respect and gratitude. Alongside George, crew member Jean-Marc Bonello, who’s heading to mainland Europe after five years, was also honoured. Both received special commemorative mugs and cards from their team.
“Loyalty and commitment are the hallmarks of a lifeboat service. Jean-Marc and George have demonstrated that. They have both been respected members of the team making significant contributions in different ways,” said Mark Southwell, Cowes RNLI lifeboat operations manager.
Legacy Keeper George Stays on as Archivist
George’s press officer days may be over, but he’s not stepping away from the fight. He’ll keep Cowes’ lifesaving legacy alive as station archivist. Plus, he’ll pick up a special certificate this November for more than ten years’ dedicated service.
Reflecting on his journey, George said, “As someone who quite probably owes his life to the RNLI, it has been an enormous privilege to share the charity’s remarkable and often challenging work with the public.”
