A dedicated pensioner who spent 40 years helping save lives on the River Clyde has called time on his selfless work.
George Parsonage, 75, worked on the motorboat at Glasgow Humane Society House , aiding people in difficulty in the treacherous waters – including the woman who would later become his wife.
Even on his last day, George was called into action to help out on the river.
The veteran lifesaver was joined by William Graham, who is to take over from George in running the society.
George’s dad, Ben, ran the society in 1918 until his death in 1979, when his son took over.
George said: “You have to realise all rivers are dangerous, some more than others.
“I was born right here and I’ve been helping for nearly 70 years on the river.
“When you’re born in a lifeboat station there is no other way of life.
“You can’t sit here and watch your dad risk his life without doing something. You have to go and help.” George, who has earned several awards including an MBE for his work, says the society is a family unit.
His wife Stephanie, 60, and sons – Benjamin, 24, and Christopher, 21, are also involved.
George said: “All I ever said to them was, ‘Wherever you are in this world, take time to do something to help others’.”
He will now take a step back from responsibilities with the society as his age means he can no longer be insured to use the lifeboat.
Instead, he will take on a more advisory role, sharing his teachings with William and raising awareness through safety groups.
It’s thought that George, from Glasgow, has rescued well over 1500 people during his career.
George said: “For the last 40 or 50 years, when an incident occurred, I’d write down what happened and why I did what I did during it – that is teaching for the future.
“I’m upbeat in the fact that I’ll be 76 in a couple of weeks’ time and still able to give advice.
“All that matters is the society has to be here, even if it’s just advising.”
