A tribute to Morecambe Lifeboat Chairman: Michael Guy
It is with deep sadness that flags at Morecambe RNLI are flying half-mast to honour our Chairman, colleague and friend Michael Guy who passed away recently after a short illness.
Mike volunteered as a Deputy Launching Authority before becoming Lifeboat Operations Manager for 10 years and for the last 6 years Mike volunteered as Morecambe Lifeboat Chairman.
Our station has many fond memories of Mike with many of the past and present crew knowing him since a young age. He was an asset to the station and the wider community, we are sure he will be greatly missed. Mike dedicated his life to helping others throughout his career in healthcare as well as his RNLI career.
Mike was on duty the fateful evening of February 5th 2004 when the cockling tragedy took place. At the ten year anniversary of this tragedy he stated that “The search is the most distressing and demanding that any of us have ever had to take part in and it left a mark on us all. Nothing could have prepared us for that night and I know that no one involved will ever forget the dreadful events of that evening.” Mike ensured that the public were aware of the importance of learning from the tragedy in Morecambe Bay.
In 2012 The Visitor launched a weekly series of questions for Morecambe RNLI volunteers; this gave an insight into why the crew members volunteered. Mikes unforgettable quote about his fellow volunteers stated “For most, the camaraderie is important. When we need to be serious, we’re serious, but when we want a craic, we have a craic.” This really does sum up Mikes personality, having a sense of humour whilst remaining extremely professional. As Mike would wish the station will continue to ‘have a craic’ in his honour.
Deputy Launching Authority, Harry Roberts MBE said ‘Mike will be sorely missed by all the team at Morecambe. He was a great influence to many, both as a friend and a colleague. His extensive knowledge, calming influence and sympathetic ear made him a valued part of the lifeboat service.
‘Mike was a much loved friend to us all at Morecambe Lifeboat Station, he will be greatly missed by everybody at the station. Our thoughts at this sad time are with his family and friends.’
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
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