Farewell Steve Simmonds as Guy Willing Takes Helm at Bembridge RNLI
After 15 years steering the Bembridge RNLI lifeboat, Steve Simmonds has retired as Coxswain. The trusted post now passes to local lifeboat veteran Guy Willing, ready to carry on the life-saving tradition.
Guy Willing: Island Man with Lifelong Ties to RNLI
Guy, who relocated to the Isle of Wight in 1974, has deep Bembridge roots. He attended local schools before serving five years in the Royal Engineers, with tours to the Falklands, Belize, Germany, Denmark, and Cyprus. Post-military, Guy worked for Southern Electric and then Associated British Ports, where he piloted around 1,000 ships each year across all weather conditions.
His lifelong connection with the RNLI started young. At just 10, he helped clean the brass on the Solent Class Lifeboat. He joined Bembridge RNLI as a volunteer crewman in 1994, briefly left, then rejoined in 2008. Over the years, Guy has taken part in over 150 rescues and climbed the ranks to become an Assistant Mechanic and now Coxswain.
Sea-Faring Passion and Life on the Water
- Guy is an avid sailor, owning several yachts over the years and currently sailing a Nicholson 31.
- In 2016, he completed the Jester Challenge, sailing non-stop from Plymouth to Cowes via Ireland and the Scillies.
- He regularly sails to France, the Channel Islands, and the West Country.
- Outside of the sea, Guy cycles about 60 miles each week and is a family man with three daughters.
“Becoming Coxswain of Bembridge Lifeboat has been a lifetime ambition,” said Guy. “I’m excited to work with Lifeboat Mechanic Bryan Jones and our dedicated volunteer team to continue our 151-year mission of saving lives at sea.”
Steve Simmonds’ Proud Legacy
Steve’s RNLI journey began in 1987 as a boat builder at the Inshore Lifeboat Centre in East Cowes. Joining Bembridge’s crew in 1996, he took command as Coxswain in 2003, faithfully leading the lifeboat team for 15 years.
Looking ahead, Steve plans to enjoy fishing and travel around the UK with his wife Lyn and dog Milly in their motorhome.
“I’ll always look back on my RNLI service with great pride,” Steve said. “I know Guy will be an excellent Coxswain – after all, I helped train him for the role!”
