Hoylake and West Kirby RNLI thank volunteer for 58 years of “extraordinary” service as he retires

Hoylake and West Kirby RNLI have marked the retirement of one of their longest serving volunteers as David “Hoppy” Hopkinson steps down after 58 years serving the lifesaving charity.

Hoppy 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. Hoppy volunteered on the Wirral station’s D Class lifeboat and was part of many rescues.

On stepping down from the sea-going crew, Hoppy 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.

Hoppy served as Vice Chairman to Captain Robin Woodall, James Lodder and most recently John Curry, until his retirement from the RNLI in December 2024 – the same month in which he celebrated his 90th birthday.

Following his final meeting of the Hoylake and West Kirby Lifeboat Management Group on 10 December, Hoppy was presented with an RNLI Certificate of Service to mark his decades of volunteering. Hoppy also 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.

Speaking after the presentation, 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 organization 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.’

Richard added: ‘As he retires this year, we extend our deepest gratitude to Hoppy for his extraordinary service and the camaraderie he has shared with us all. We wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement and thank him for his kindness, commitment, and friendship. He will always remain a cherished part of the West Kirby Lifeboat family. Fair winds and following seas, Hoppy!’

Dave Whiteley, Hoylake RNLI LOM, said:

‘I would like to thank Hoppy on behalf of the Hoylake RNLI Operations Team and crew for his unwavering support, as well as his fantastic fundraising efforts, over all these years and wish him a happy retirement.’

Find out more about RNLI Hoylake here.

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