I remember the day I met Colin in 1996 as a teenager asking if i could join the Lifeboat for 6 months. He was working on the jets on the back of a shiny new boat, in his (now famous) blue overalls, with his Breton cap on. It was a good day. And I stayed for more than 6 months!

Colin inspired, taught, reprimanded, supported and fundamentally instilled in me what being a lifeboatman meant. His contribution to Hamble Lifeboat (amongst his other achievements!) will certainly not be forgotten. Colin’s influence on me is one of great enormity; he kept me grounded, taught me life skills (sculling, rowing, splicing, repairing nets amongst many others!) and always stayed humble.

I don’t think I ever said thank you.

Thank you, Colin. It’s your time to rest now. 

J.