'Commitment has been nothing short of extraordinary': Skegness Lifeboat hero bows out after decades of service

Volunteer crew member Andy Epton has retired from operational duties, bringing to a close a remarkable chapter of service that began in 1984.

After leaving the Navy, Andy joined the town’s lifeboat station as a shore helper. It was not long before he began training afloat, later serving in a number of key roles including inshore lifeboat helm and all-weather lifeboat emergency mechanic. Fellow volunteers say he became known for his calm approach, quiet reliability and determination in even the toughest conditions.

In his early years Andy served aboard the station’s D class inshore lifeboat, followed by the Oakley and later the Mersey class all-weather lifeboats, launching into challenging seas to assist those in trouble. Among the many call-outs he attended was the demanding Sea Fever rescue, for which the crew received the RNLI’s Thanks of the Institution Inscribed on Vellum in recognition of particularly meritorious service.

Although he took a break from the station in 2008, Andy returned in 2016, once again throwing himself into the lifesaving work. Back ashore he became a key member of the launch team and later served as Head Launcher and Launch Vehicle Driver, helping send the station’s modern Shannon class all-weather lifeboat on service quickly and safely.

His final exercise took place on Sunday, January 25, 2026, when he carried out launch duties for the last time — a poignant moment for colleagues who have worked alongside him for decades.

Paying tribute, Lifeboat Operations Manager Martin Freeman said: “Andy’s commitment to saving lives off Skegness has been nothing short of extraordinary. From starting out on the shore crew in the 1980s, to serving afloat in some very challenging conditions, and later taking responsibility for launching our Shannon class lifeboat, he has given decades of loyal and dedicated service.

“He has always been someone we can rely on — calm, professional and completely committed to the job in hand. His experience and knowledge have been invaluable to the station.

“On behalf of everyone here, I would like to thank Andy for the enormous contribution he has made. He should be immensely proud of what he has achieved over the years.”

Colleagues at the station have echoed those sentiments, describing him as “a true team player” and “one of the quiet heroes behind countless launches.”

As he begins his retirement, the crew have extended their warmest wishes — and heartfelt thanks — to a volunteer whose life has been closely tied to the sea and to the safety of others for more than four decades.