Rottingdean artist Mick Bensley known for RNLI paintings dies

Mick Bensley, 79, was a prolific painter who contributed works to The Grange Gallery in Rottingdean where he lived.

Mick, who lived in the village for over 30 years, was a “well liked and popular member of the community” who dedicated his life to his artistic passion.

Paula Exton, Mick’s ex-wife and friend of 45 years, said: “We had a great friendship. We would often spend Christmas together and he used to be very, very sociable.

“He would talk to anyone and he was entertaining, he had so many stories. He was really easy to get on with.

“I will remember him sitting at his desk painting and drawing or standing at his easel.”

Mick was originally from Sheringham in Norfolk but moved to London where he worked as a graphic designer.

He met Paula, 69, while playing darts with her at a pub in the capital. She recalled how he told her about painting a large mural of a Spitfire in his rented flat.

Mick in Rottingdean (Image: Paula Exton)

Paula said that Mick was a “great supporter” of the RNLI and they would often visit lifeboat stations when they went out, including the institution’s headquarters in Poole.

Much of Mick’s work centred around marine painting and boats and included many pictures of RNLI vessels.

A book of his work including rescue reconstructions was published as well as a portrait of Henry Bloggs, the most decorated boatsmen in the institution’s history.

Mick with daughter Aimee and grandson Phoenix (Image: Paula Exton)

Paula said he loved to draw as well as watch football and read books with “a glass of decent whiskey” while listening to Bob Dylan.

Following his death, a spokesman for The Grange gallery said: “He was such a talented artist, and such a regular exhibitor at The Grange that he really helped to establish our reputation as a serious art gallery.”

Mick  died on Friday, March 24, and is survived by his first wife Christine, children Aimee and Russell, and grandson Phoenix.