Hoylake and West Kirby RNLI have marked the retirement of one of their longest serving volunteers.
David Hopkinson, nicknamed Hoppy, who is 90-years-old. has stepped down after 58 years serving the lifesaving charity.
He was one of the founding members of West Kirby RNLI lifeboat station in 1966.
As a young Liverpool Marine Pilot and a member of West Kirby Sailing Club, his efforts alongside others established the inshore lifeboat to keep people safe in the Dee Estuary.
He volunteered on the Wirral station’s D Class lifeboat and was part of many rescues.
On stepping down from the sea-going crew, he became one of West Kirby RNLI’s Deputy Launching Authorities before later being appointed Vice Chairman of the Hoylake and West Kirby Lifeboat Management Group.
He served as Vice Chairman to Captain Robin Woodall, James Lodder and most recently John Curry, until his retirement from the RNLI in December 2024.
He has been presented with an RNLI Certificate of Service to mark his decades of volunteering and received a glass tankard, a commemorative glass ornament of West Kirby’s D class lifeboat, and a framed photograph of the Wirral’s three lifeboats from Hoylake, West Kirby and New Brighton (pictured, top).
John Curry, Chairman of the Hoylake and West Kirby Lifeboat Management Group, said: “Throughout his 58-year lifeboat career, Hoppy has served the Royal National Lifeboat Institution to the best of his ability and with the dedication of a true lifeboat man.
“We at Hoylake and West Kirby wish Hoppy well in retirement.”
Richard Diamond, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager (LOM), said: “Hoppy has been a cornerstone of our community for decades.
“His unwavering dedication and commitment to saving lives at sea have supported countless individuals and families, leaving an enduring impact on both the RNLI and the lives of those he has helped.
“Hoppy’s friendship, humor, and selfless service are what make the RNLI the remarkable organisation it is today.
“His tireless efforts have not only made a difference to the casualties rescued but also brought comfort and hope to their families.”
