Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI mourns the loss of retired Coxswain Michael Ross

Michael began his RNLI journey in February 1974 on the station's D class and all-weather lifeboats (Watson class) before progressing to the Atlantic 21 when she arrived on station in September 1976. He served as inshore lifeboat crew until this boat was replaced with a new Mersey class all-weather lifeboat in 1993. He took up the role as second Coxswain, a role he always regarded as a great honour during the vessel's proud 30 years of service at the station.

After stepping down from operational sea-going duties, Michael continued to serve as one of the station's deputy launching authorities until he turned 70, helping ensure the lifeboat remained ready to respond whenever needed.

Never one to step away from supporting the RNLI, Michael later joined the station's fundraising team, helping to raise vital funds that keep the charity's lifeboats afloat, train volunteer crews, and provide lifesaving equipment and protective clothing. Whether at lifeboat fetes, Brew with the Crew events, or numerous other fundraising activities, Michael remained a familiar and valued presence.

Throughout his remarkable service, Michael received two Letters of Commendation, a 22-Year Long Service Badge, a 26-Year Certificate of Service, the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal, and his 40-Year Long Service Medal. In June 2025, he was presented with his RNLI 50-Year Long Service Medal by the Lord-Lieutenant of Northumberland, Dr Caroline Pryer, in recognition of half a century of voluntary service dedicated to saving lives at sea.

Kevin Knox, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI, said: ‘Michael was a mentor to many generations of RNLI volunteers, guiding and encouraging crew members with patience, wisdom and good humour.

'He often spoke about the many rewarding years he had spent volunteering with the RNLI, while never forgetting that not every service call had a happy ending.

'One of his most memorable rescues was on 19 April 1983, when, as a crew member aboard the Atlantic 21 lifeboat, he helped rescue three fishermen from the fishing vessel White Heather V after it ran aground on the bar at the entrance to Berwick Harbour. The vessel was being battered by heavy seas, with waves breaking over her as the crew carried out the rescue. Michael would describe it as one of the most frightening shouts he attended, reminding us all that you never know what challenges a rescue may bring.

'Throughout his years of service, he never stopped sharing his knowledge and experience, always emphasizing the importance of staying safe while saving lives at sea. He will be greatly missed by everyone at Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI.'

Ian Hay, President and Chairman of Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI, said: ‘Michael dedicated much of his adult life to the RNLI, serving the community, saving lives at sea, training crew members and passing on his wealth of knowledge and experience.

'As a valued member of the RNLI family and a friend to so many, he leaves a huge void in our hearts.

'Our thanks also go to his wife Brenda and his family. Behind every volunteer who serves at sea is a family who supports them throughout their service.

'Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Brenda and the entire family at this difficult time. On behalf of everyone at Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI Lifeboat Station, thank you, Michael, for your exemplary service and dedication to saving lives at sea. May you rest in peace.’

RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact:

Hazel Bettison, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Berwick-upon-Tweed RNLI, [email protected]

Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for North East and East England, 07824 518641, [email protected]

Richard Grange, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for North East and East England, 07483 112015, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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