It’s the end of an era at Tenby RNLI lifeboat station - as Coxswain Phil John steps down after 30 years as a crew member.

Phil who spent 14 years at the station as Coxwain, recently announced to the crew in Tenby that he would stand down as full-time Coxswain in May.

Lifeboats run in Phil’s family, with his dad Johnny having served on the crew before him; whist his brother Rob is a Deputy Coxswain at Tenby.

Phil joined the crew in 1994, completing 16 years as a volunteer, before becoming full-time Coxswain in 2010 when then Coxswain Alan Thomas retired.

Phil John
Phil (right) is pictured handing over his pager to Dan Young, who will be standing in until a full-time replacement Coxswain is appointed and will be supported by the other deputy Coxswains. (Pic supplied)

“With many lives saved and countless others assisted during his time, the replacement Coxswain will have big shoes to fill once appointed,” said a spokesperson for Tenby RNLI.

“From all the crew at the station - thanks for your service Phil, it’s been a pleasure. “Thanks for being a great leader over the years – you will be missed. Good luck in whatever you do next!”

Phil handed over his pager on Friday, May 17 to fellow crew member Dan Young, who will be standing in until a full-time replacement Coxswain is appointed and will be supported by the other deputy Coxswains.