Brighton’s Longest-Serving RNLI Volunteer Bids Farewell After 46 Years
Malcolm Harvey, Brighton RNLI’s longest-serving volunteer, is retiring after an incredible 46 years of saving lives at sea.
From Humble Beginnings to Lifesaving Legend
Malcolm joined Brighton Marina’s first-ever lifeboat crew in 1978, right after the station opened. Before that, he spent two years training with Newhaven RNLI, preparing for action as soon as the station was ready.
As crew mechanic and helm for 14 years, Malcolm steered through storms and rescues until turning 50 in 1990 forced him to step down from active duty.
“Things were pretty different then,” Malcolm recalls. “While the lifeboat station was being finished, we kept our kits in a horsebox, then a donated two-wheel caravan. We never quite got the smell of horses out of our gear!”
“We had five suits between us, for crew members ranging from 5ft 7 to over 6ft tall. It looked quite funny!”
78 Lives Saved and Counting
Over his tenure, Malcolm helped save a staggering 78 lives. One unforgettable rescue involved a family of four and their spaniel, stranded by the tide in Saltdean.
Malcolm had to scramble onto rocks to save the dog, who promptly leapt back into the water—much to the amusement and relief of the children and parents.
“There aren’t many people who can say someone is alive because of something they did,” Malcolm said. “Lifeboat crews are unsung heroes, right up there with the emergency services.”
“I’ll always be proud of my time with the RNLI—especially the friendships and camaraderie at the station.”
New Roles, New Challenges
When Malcolm retired from crew duties, he stepped up as Deputy Launch Authority, authorising lifeboat launches for 20 years. At 70, he passed the baton again but found a new role as station Chairman until his retirement this year.
In recognition of his decades of dedication, Malcolm received a prestigious long service award from the RNLI at Hampton Court Palace.
Roger Cohen MBE, Brighton’s lifeboat operations manager, paid tribute: “We are so grateful for Malcolm’s years of service. His experience, tenacity, and selflessness set the standard for all of us.”
“He truly embodies the spirit of the RNLI and should be immensely proud of everything he’s achieved.”
