By Isle of Wight Observer
Bembridge lifeboat station has welcomed its 11th D-Class inshore lifeboat, D-912 Sue, replacing the previous D-Class 778 Norman Harvey, after 11 years of service.
The new lifeboat was made possible thanks to the Michael Cornish Charitable Trust, who made a donation, which has supported not only the build of the lifeboat, but also wider lifeboat fleet modifications.
The inshore lifeboat has been named in honour of Michael Cornish’s wife, Sue, and is able to operate closer to shore, manoeuvre in shallow waters and get nearer to cliffs.
The ceremony was attended by station representatives from Hayling Island RNLI, Cowes RNLI, and Yarmouth RNLI, Isle of Wight Guild members and family. High Sheriff, Nigel Hartley, was in attendance with Ryan Hall, deputy director of Lifesaving Operations, and Reverend Steve Daugherty, from Holy Trinity Church, Bembridge.
Nigel said: “I’m delighted to represent the Michael Cornish Charitable Trust for the naming and dedication of this D-Class lifeboat. Being High Sheriff for the last three months, I see good people doing good things on a day-to-day basis, and the RNLI here in Bembridge is no exception. I know the trustees are overjoyed to hand this lifeboat officially to the care of the RNLI.”
The day was made extra special as notable recognition was given to several crew members for their brave actions during a rescue on July 22, 2025. They received the RNLI Chief Executive’s Commendation, for saving 13 teenagers and two adults from a 33-metre vessel, which was taking on water in heavy swells and strong winds. The award was handed to Guy Willing, John Attrill, Andy Sibley, Steve Jones and Alex Sibley.
Service awards were also presented to Guy Willing for 20 years of service, Richard Bishop for 30 years of service, and to Marc Thwaites for 40 years of service, one of the longest-serving crewmen at Bembridge.
