John Stobbart steps down as coxswain at Workington RNLI

John Stobbart, from Workington, joined the RNLI in 1987 and was awarded the British Empire Medal in 2021 for his contribution to the charity which aims to save lives at sea. 

He has received numerous letters of commendation from the RNLI for his role as the coxswain (the person who steers the boat) during difficult callouts.

John said: "It's very much a team effort. The RNLI is all about working together and working as one. I may be the coxswain of the all-weather lifeboat, but without every single member of the crew doing their bit, we wouldn't be able to go out to sea."

He acts as a mentor to younger crew members and out at sea. The RNLI has changed a lot over the years, and John has weathered the storm. 

John first joined the RNLI in 1987 (Image: RNLI/Mark Regan)

John added: "The lifeboats are only the machine behind these are the people the crew the shore crew the management group and the fundraisers all of which play a part in making the RNLI the amazing organisation it really is.'

John joined in 1987 after being invited to 'have a go' by then-coxswain Albert Brown.

He said "I have been into boats since I was a kid, once I had joined the lifeboat at Workington it soon became very much part of my life. The lifeboats, the people, the whole experience - it's had hard times and sad times but mostly it's been a great life experience and pleasure to be involved and will certainly be a miss."

John will remain at the RNLI in an operational role (Image: RNLI/Mark Regan)

His connection with Workington RNLI remains strong and he will continue in an operational role.

Tim Chittenden, lifeboat operations manager, said: "John has been an integral part of Workington RNLI for a long time and has dedicated himself to the charity. Workington RNLI relies on its volunteers and John is a shining example."

John concluded: "The lifeboat will always be a part of my life and if I can continue to make a contribution I will do so."