Scarborough RNLI remembers lost crew at annual memorial service
Scarborough RNLI held its 71st annual memorial service at St Mary’s Church on Sunday December 7, continuing a tradition of remembrance that has taken place every year since the tragic loss of the lifeboat ECJR in 1954.
The memorial service recalled the events of December 8 1954, when the Scarborough lifeboat ECJR, a 35-foot self-righting vessel, launched to escort the fishing fleet safely back to harbour as a sudden south-easterly gale struck.
After multiple rescues, the lifeboat attempted to return to Scarborough in worsening seas.
On its ninth attempt to enter the harbour, ECJR was overwhelmed by massive waves, capsized, and righted again, leaving five crewmen washed overboard.
Despite heroic efforts, Coxswain John Nicholas Sheader, Second Coxswain John Cammish, and Signalman Francis Bayes tragically lost their lives. Their bravery, alongside that of the surviving crew, remains a cornerstone of Scarborough RNLI’s history.
Just days later, the ECJR returned to service with a newly formed crew, including the five survivors of the accident. On December 13 1954, a funeral service was held at St Mary’s Church, attended by the widows, families, and a large congregation, with the Archbishop of York delivering a heartfelt sermon.
The annual service pays tribute not only to those lost in the ECJR tragedy but also to all 16 crew members who have given their lives in the service of Scarborough lifeboat. Among them is Frank Dalton, who died in an accident three years earlier in tumultuous seas on December 9 1951.
Roger Buxton, Scarborough RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, reflected: “Every year since this tragedy has been commemorated by a church service remembering their ultimate sacrifice and final act of selflessness.
“For some, these events may now seem like a distant memory, but to the families of the fallen, they remain ever-present.
“It is our duty to ensure their courage and sacrifice are never forgotten by the people of Scarborough.”
The service was conducted by Rev Sam Tredwell and Rev Pam Jennings, with music provided by the Filey Fishermen’s Choir.
Attendees included Cllr Janet Jefferson, members of HM Coastguard, Scarborough Sea Cadets, and many supporters of the RNLI.
They were welcomed by Scarborough RNLI Chairperson Colin Woodhead. Readings were given by Scarborough RNLI Coxswain Will Watts, Cllr Janet Jefferson, and Rev Pam Jennings.
The Roll of Honour was delivered by volunteer crew member Jason Hedges.
This year’s service also marked the final RNLI memorial service led by Rev Pam Jennings before her retirement. Scarborough RNLI expressed heartfelt thanks for her years of support and wished her well for the future.
Scarborough RNLI has been saving lives at sea for 224 years. During that time, countless rescues have been carried out, but 16 crew members have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Each year, the memorial service ensures their courage and sacrifice are remembered by the community, and that the legacy of Scarborough’s lifeboat crews continues to inspire future generations.
The memorial service remains a vital part of Scarborough’s maritime heritage, bringing together crew, families, and the wider community to honour those who gave their lives so that others might be saved.
It is a reminder of the enduring values of courage, duty, and selflessness that define the RNLI.