Cowes Lifeboat Service Celebrates Double Milestone in Style!
Last weekend, Cowes lifeboat service marked two huge anniversaries: 30 years since its birth as an independent rescue squad and 10 years since the RNLI took over with a brand-new operation. The celebrations at the lifeboat station drew volunteers and veterans from both eras for a special re-dedication ceremony.
Stars of the Day: Chaplain, Lord Lieutenant and Lifeboat Chiefs
The event kicked off with a stirring blessing from Rev Andrew Poppe, the station chaplain. Speeches followed from the Isle of Wight’s Lord Lieutenant, Maj Gen Sir Martin White, Lifeboat Management Group Chair Hugh Robotham, and Station Operations Manager Mark Southwell.
Hugh, once part of the original independent crew, recalled the tragic 1987 collision between a Red Funnel hydrofoil and a fishing boat that sparked the lifeboat’s creation.
From Humble Beginnings to RNLI Takeover
In 1988, Cowes Rescue launched with a modest six-metre Avon RIB. For 20 years, the brave crew battled fundraising challenges and upgraded their lifeboats twice.
Eventually, a hard decision saw the RNLI invited to take the helm with their own vessel. Mark, a former customs officer turned lifeboat operations manager, played a key role in the £1 million fundraising drive to convert the old Customs House into the current station. He said, “We got here because of the dedication and quality of our volunteers. This is a true team effort. Everyone here should be immensely proud.”
Praise for Volunteers and a Glimpse Back
Maj Gen White, also president of the RNLI’s Isle of Wight Lifeboat Board, praised the service and its crew for their tireless commitment to saving lives.
The double jubilee weekend also featured a stunning public photo exhibition at the Regatta Centre, showcasing the courageous history and evolution of Cowes lifeboat service — all thanks to Cowes Combined Clubs Ltd for the venue.
