March 4 2013.


Newhaven RLNI report that crew member Gavin Butcher passed away peacefully on Monday the 25th of February. He was diagnosed with terminal cancer in May 2012 while he was still serving on the Newhaven crew. 

Gavin joined the crew in 2006 and was appointed as assistant mechanic in 2008. He was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 in recognition of his service. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, especially his friends at the Newhaven Lifeboat Station.
 
After Gavin was diagnosed, fellow crew and friends of the lifeboat station raised £8,390 last July for Macmillan Cancer Support, by mountain biking 100 miles of the South Downs Way and a sponsored walk over part of the South Downs. The huge sum raised reflects the popularity of Gavin and how his volunteering work has been appreciated.

Coxswain Paul Legendre explained: "Gavin was one of those larger than life characters who always looked out for others and who really would do anything for anyone. We have so many great memories from his time on the boat."

Gavin leaves behind his wife, Lucy and three young children.

The date for Gavin's funeral is to be confirmed.