Ramsgate RNLI crew form honour guard for funeral of Ron Cannon MBE

The crew formed an honour guard Photo Steve Burton

Ramsgate RNLI crew formed a guard of honour at the funeral of former member Ron Cannon MBE on Friday (February 2).

Ron had been an active RNLI volunteer for 53 years and was former coxswain of Ramsgate lifeboat. He died on January 7.

Ron Cannon

Ron was a crew member of Ramsgate RNLI – one of the busiest stations in Britain- for 37 years – and the coxswain for 25 of those. During his time at the helm of Ramsgate lifeboat he was awarded two Silver Gallantry medals – the RNLI’s second-highest honour.

He was also presented with The Maud Smith Award and awarded an MBE in Her Majesty the Queen’s 2017 Birthday Honours.

The service was held at St George’s Church, Church Hill, and more than 500 people attended.

Amongst them were a large number of past and present Ramsgate lifeboat crew who had served with Ron during his 37 years with the RNLI.

They formed the guard of honour as the coffin entered and left the church. Many friends and colleagues from around the country connected with the RNLI also attended to show their deep respect for Ron.

An RNLI spokesman said: “In all, such a large congregation was a wonderful testimony to how much Ron was admired and respected. He will always be part of Ramsgate Harbour’s history and will be greatly missed by all those who had the privilege to know him. He was a dear friend, colleague and father figure to many.”

 

Fundraiser

Photo Sarah Hewes

Ramsgate Lifeboat fundraisers had a successful few hours at Tesco’s in Broadstairs

High Street where they collected £393.01.

Members thanked the management and staff of the store for their support and all who kindly donated.