Coxswain Maurice Hutchens

Maurice was in the crew in 1963 and was present on the service to the 'Jean Gougy' at Lands End, and the following year on the Bronze Medal service to the 'Victor Roger', also at Lands End. Maurice was also on the Silver Medal service to the 'Union Crystal' in 1977.

Maurice was appointed Coxswain in 1978 and was awarded the RNLI's Silver Medal for the outstanding rescue of 5 Icelandic seamen from the coaster 'Tungufoss' in very poor conditions in 1981. This rescue also resulted in the award of the Icelandic Silver Medal for Bravery presented to Maurice and the Crew by the then President of Iceland. Maurice was also in command of the lifeboat on the night of the loss of the Penlee lifeboat.

An absolute Character - those of us who were lucky enough to serve with him will never forget the brilliant fun and games we enjoyed with him whilst carrying out the lifeboat service in those days.

Our thoughts are with Maurice's family at this difficult time.

Maurice's funeral service will be held on Monday 14^th November at 3pm at Treswithian

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.