Change of Coxswain at Falmouth RNLI as Jon Blakeston Steps Down

New era for Falmouth RNLI

Falmouth RNLI has welcomed a new volunteer Coxswain, as Jon Blakeston officially handed over command to Luke Wills on Sunday 29th June 2025.

The change comes as the station marks a fresh chapter with the arrival of its new state-of-the-art Shannon class all-weather lifeboat. Jon, affectionately known as JB, will continue his work with the charity, taking on the role of Senior Station Technician.

Over 30 years of service

Jon has been part of Falmouth RNLI for more than three decades. He started as crew on the inshore lifeboat and worked his way up through the ranks, first as helm, then as station mechanic. He later became Second Coxswain under Mark Pollard, before taking on the top role in February 2015.

Jon’s first ‘shout’ as Coxswain was in June 2006. Since then, he has launched the lifeboat 146 times in command and has received several letters of thanks from the RNLI for the services carried out by him and the volunteer crew.

Speaking on his decision to step down, Jon said:
“It felt the right time to hand over the role to the next generation, with the welcoming of the new lifeboat. Luke will take the crew into a new era for the station. The last 10 years has been an honour to serve Falmouth and I feel proud and privileged to have had the opportunity.”

📷Luke Wills at the helm of 'Decibel Too' on arrival in Falmouth - Credit: RNLI/Glen Reed

Luke Wills takes command

New Coxswain Luke Wills brings over 20 years of experience to the role. Like Jon, he served as a helm on the inshore lifeboat and became Second Coxswain in 2015.

On his appointment, Luke said:
“A massive thanks to JB for his support, coaching and guidance over the years……..I have some very large boots to fill. Special thanks also to our volunteer crew and shore teams for their support. We are all looking forward to this new chapter in the history of Falmouth Lifeboat.”

The station has wished both Jon and Luke all the best in their new and continuing roles.

📷Official handover - Credit: RNLI/Glen Reed

📷Emotions - Credit: RNLI/Glen Reed

📷JB on arrival of the stations new lifeboat 'Decibael Too' - Credit: RNLI/Glen Reed