Volunteer Clive Cockayne, who had given 51 years of service to the Selsey RNLI has died aged 69.
Clive was a volunteer for the Selsey RNLI for many years, dedicating most of his life and service to be a lifeboat volunteer. He retired in October this year.
In a statement RNLI Selsey Lifeboat said Mr Cockayne first joined the RNLI as a crew member on the all-weather lifeboat in 1970, during this time he also helped his father, Des, fulfil the role as Honorary Secretary before succeeding him, and then later taking on the position of Lifeboat Operations Manager. Clive held this position until January 2020.
During his time as Honorary Secretary and Lifeboat Operations Manager, he oversaw several lifeboat transitions, the most significant being the change from the wooden class Oakley to the first fast slipway Tyne class, City of London. This lifeboat was financed by the Guild of the City of London, and Clive played a key part in creating a longstanding relationship with this organisation. The much loved volunteer was also instrumental in both the planning of and transition from the slipway launch station to a shore-based station with the new Shannon class lifeboat.
Mark Dowie, Chief Executive of the RNLI, paid tribute to Clive on his retirement back in October saying “Clive has truly demonstrated our four values – Selflessness, Dependability, Trustworthy and Courageous – in his long and illustrious career”
Many tributes were made from the community and beyond after the announcement of Clives passing on the Selsey RNLI social media page.
“Such tragic news my thoughts and prayers to family and friends. So grateful forClive’s absolute loyalty and service to Selsey lifeboat station. Always a pleasure to visit and work with him in the cause of saving lives at sea. A highly respected man, and one whom I will never forget as an inspiration to us all. His hospitality was second to none, and I will always appreciate that”
“My condolences to Clive's family and all at Selsey. Clive was so dedicated, always stood up for the station, took no crap from coast staff either, a very respected nice chap. Clive, I always rung you before turning up on station, I remember mate.”
“Very sad to hear of Clive’s passing. He always fought hard for Selsey Lifeboat Station’s personnel & the need for improved shore facilities in the 1980’s/90’s. Sincere condolences to his family & many friends”
“His hospitality was second to none, and I will always appreciate that.”
“I’m so very sad to hear this news. A gentleman who gave great service to the RNLI. My thoughts are with his family.”
Our thoughts are with Clive's family and friends.
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