TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Poole lifeboat coxswain and mechanic who has died.

RNLI Poole Lifeboat Station lowered its flag to remember Steve Vince who passed away on January 30 after a short illness.

Steve joined the Poole lifeboat crew in 1989 and was later appointed coxswain in 1989, where he was in charge of navigating and steering the boats.

He became a coxswain and mechanic not long after in 1981.

In 1986, he was awarded the RNLI's Thanks of the Institution inscribed on vellum for his part in rescuing a boy and girl from marshland in Poole Harbour.

And in 1994, Steve received a framed letter of thanks in relation to a service to a yacht in distress.

During his RNLI service, he was credited with having saved a remarkable 369 lives.

Words written on behalf of Steve's wife, Rachel, and his ex-wife and beloved long-term friend Holly, read: "Steve was a wonderful, caring man with a passion for boats and being on the water, which is where he spent most of his life, whether it be a harbour commissioner's workboat, passenger boat, lifeboat, fishing boat, Cornish pilot gig or canal boat.

"He touched so many people's lives and will be very much missed by Rachel and all his family and friends."

After retiring from the RNLI Poole Lifeboat Station in 1998, Steve continued with his passion for the water. He frequently spent his time fishing, netting, and potting in the Poole and Swanage area.

In 2011, he relocated to the canals and spent a few years navigating the inland waterways on his beloved boat, Willow.

During this time, he met his wife Rachel, who was also enjoying life on the canals, and they subsequently married in 2019.

Steve’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, February 21, at Rugby Crematorium (Rainsbrook Crematorium) at 2pm.

There will be another tribute in Dorset when his ashes are scattered for anyone who can't attend the funeral.