RNLI pays respects to stalwart of charity

RNLI lifeboat crews past and present lined a street in Exmouth for the funeral of Tim Mock, former coxwain at Exmouth Lifeboat Station.

Tim, who worked for the charity for 34 years, first joined as a crew volunteer in April 1980 aged 21 before becoming boats mechanic just three years later in 1983.

And after 30 years of service Tim finally handed in his pager and returned his keys to the lifeboat station on Christmas Day 2013 before officially retiring in February 2014.

With Covid-19 restrictions still in place, Tim’s colleagues stood along the seafront on Thursday to say their final farewells.

Speaking earlier this month, Exmouth RNLI paid tribute to their former colleague.

Andrew Woods, operations manager at the RNLI, said: “So sorry to hear about the loss of Tim. An absolute stalwart in Exmouth RNLI history.

“I have very fond memories of working with him and enjoying a pint after. Lovely man and surely missed by all that knew him.”

Chair of Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Management Group, Simon Davidson said: “Even within the RNLI, people of the stature, personality, and with the devotion to service of Tim Mock are rare – no wonder that he was held in such high regard and affection by all who knew him.

“His family, friends, fellow volunteers and Exmouth have lost a colossus. Rest In Peace Tim.”

Vice Chair of Devon County Council and former Exmouth Mayor, Jeff Trail BEM, said: “Exmouth will remember Tim for his long and exemplary service to the town’s residents and its visitors.

“In times of need, the Coxswain is ‘at the helm’ and making those all-important decisions, very often in extremely hazardous and risky conditions, and Tim’s long service has shown that his decisions over the years have saved many, many lives.”

Volunteer RNLI crew, Inshore Lifeboat helm and navigator, Guy Munnings, said he was a huge asset to Exmouth, Exmouth lifeboat station and to the RNLI and will be “sorely missed”.