Celebrating 40 Years of Service: Ian Johnson’s Dedication to Skegness Lifeboat and the Community

At Skegness Springs, we’re proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Ian Johnson, whose dedication to both our business and the local community has been unwavering for decades.

Ian first joined the Skegness Lifeboat crew in 1980, supported every step of the way by his wife, Cathy. Over the years, their children — Simon, Sarah, and Stephen — have followed in his footsteps, joining the lifeboat crew and continuing the family’s proud tradition of service.

In the early days, Ian quickly became an integral part of the team, often using his engineering expertise to fabricate and repair parts at the factory — back when crews could maintain their own equipment. His practical skills and calm, problem-solving approach made him invaluable both on shore and at sea.

When not in the workshop, Ian could be found crewing the Mersey-class lifeboat, taking part in regular operations and long passages between Poole and Skegness. Those who served alongside him fondly recall his steady commitment, easy-going nature, and his uncanny ability to catch a bit of shut-eye on the longer trips!

This year, Ian was presented with a service award recognising 40 years of dedication to the RNLI and the Skegness Lifeboat. His continued involvement is a testament to his lifelong commitment to helping others and supporting the community he calls home.

The spirit of dedication clearly runs in the Johnson family, with many members of the extended family also having served in the Skegness Springs factory over the years. Their shared loyalty, skill, and teamwork have played a huge role in shaping the company into what it is today.