Tributes have poured in following the death of long-serving Skegness RNLI crew member James Porter, described as a devoted family man, dedicated volunteer and a friend to many.

James, who served with Skegness RNLI for more than 21 years, died after a brave two-week fight following emergency surgery for an aortic dissection.

The news has left the lifeboat station, the wider RNLI family and the local community in mourning, with colleagues paying tribute to a man whose life was defined by service to others.

In a heartfelt statement, Skegness RNLI described James as a respected colleague, devoted crew member and true friend whose connection to the station stretched back to childhood.

Tributes have been paid to long-serving Skegness RNLI crew member and Army veteran James Porter, who dedicated more than 21 years of service to helping others.

placeholder image — Tributes have been paid to long-serving Skegness RNLI crew member and Army veteran James Porter, who dedicated more than 21 years of service to helping others.

Following in the footsteps of his father, James grew up around the lifeboat station and became part of the RNLI family long before he was old enough to join the crew.

At the age of just 16, he officially became a volunteer crew member, beginning what would become more than two decades of service protecting lives along the Lincolnshire coast.

Throughout that time, he answered countless call-outs, trained tirelessly and stood ready to help those in danger at sea.

The RNLI said: "James was steadfast, dependable and quietly courageous, always willing to put others before himself without seeking recognition."

James Porter has been described as a devoted family man, dedicated volunteer and a friend to many.

Having also served in the British Army, helping others was at the heart of everything he did.

Crew colleagues remembered him as a man with an unmistakable presence, known not only for his stature but also for his kindness, loyalty and unwavering support for those around him.

The statement added: "Whether on service, during training or simply sharing time with fellow crew members, he could always be relied upon. His sense of duty, humour and friendship touched the lives of so many."

Above all, James was a devoted husband to Rebecca, known as Bex, and a loving father to their son Ethan.

The RNLI said: "Family was everything to him, and our hearts break for them at this unimaginably difficult time."

In recognition of his dedication,

"James had recently received his 20 Years Service Medal from the RNLI, marking two decades of commitment to the charity and the countless lives he helped through his volunteer service.

As news of his death spread, friends launched a fundraising campaign to support Bex and Ethan during the difficult months ahead.

The appeal, titled "In Loving Memory of James Porter", had raised more than £4,500 within days of being launched.

Organisers described James as "one of life's genuinely kind, hardworking and selfless people" whose loss has been deeply felt by everyone who knew him.

They added: "Throughout his life, James devoted himself to helping others, both professionally and within his community."

The fundraiser aims to provide practical support for his family while also honouring the memory of a man whose kindness and dedication touched so many lives.

Anyone wishing to support the appeal can donate via the GoFundMe fundraiser: In Loving Memory of James Porter Paying their final tribute, Skegness RNLI said: "Fair winds and following seas, James.

"Thank you for your friendship, your service and your unwavering dedication to helping others.

"Your watch is ended, but your legacy will live on."