Lifeboatmen’s Surprise for Coxswain and his Bride

Mr Sidney Cann, 57 Irsha Street, Appledore, coxswain of Appledore lifeboat, and Mrs Ruth White of Cranford House, Westward Ho! who were married at Westward Ho! Baptist Church on Saturday had planned a quiet wedding, but members of the lifeboat crew had other ideas.
Under the leadership of the engineer, Mr L G W Richards, they formed a guard of honour outside the Church and gave the couple ‘a roaring send-off’. Rockets soaring into the air set all the local dogs barking, Mr Richards told the Gazette, and indicated to Capt P Brennan, local hon. secretary of the RNLI ‘Cox’n spliced’: launched on service’.
Mr Cann, who is 59 years of age, is understood to be the longest serving officer in the Institution. He has served with the Appledore lifeboat for more than 30 years and holds the Institution’s bronze medal and bar. He has helped to save some 250 lives and also holds a silver medal for long service. His bride owns a baker’s shop in Westward Ho!
The Rev G H Watkeys officiated at the service and Miss Beer was organist.
Given away by her son, Mr Peter White, the bride wore a black dress with a turquoise bodice overlaid with black lace, a black coat and turquoise accessories. Mr Richard Cann, nephew of the bridegroom was best man.
Following a reception at Beachlea Cafe, Westward Ho! Mr and Mrs Cann left for a honeymoon in Eastbourne.