RNLI Lifeboat Magazine Winter 2023

ISSUE 646 | WINTER 2023–24

TOW ER OF S TRENGTH 10,0 0 0 L I F E B OAT L AU N C H E S F O R YO U R B U S I E S T S TAT I O N

PLUS:

BAPTISM OF FIRE

New coxswain combats a violent gale

DARING AND DATA

What it takes to save lives in today’s RNLI

MEET YOUR CREW

Paul at Portishead reveals what makes him tick

Bethany Hope, Editor Email: lifeboat@rnli.org.uk

WINTER 2023–24 ISSUE 646 © RNLI 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction is permitted with the prior consent of the RNLI. Opinions expressed by authors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Care is taken to ensure that editorial information is correct at the time of going to press but is subject to change.

Chair: Janet Legrand KC (Hon) Chief Executive: Mark Dowie Lifeboat Editor: Bethany Hope Lifeboat Design: Lee Hawkins, Stacey Möller, Emily Scott, David Constant Photo (bottom right): Rhyl crew, ready to rescue this Christmas, wish you a merry Christmas, Callum Robinson Front cover photograph: Tower E class lifeboat Hurley Burley at Tower Bridge, London, in 2019, RNLI/Harrison Bates

Contact us

If you have any enquiries – or would prefer not to receive Lifeboat magazine – please email us at: supporterexperience@rnli.org.uk.

Alternatively, please call 0300 300 9990 (from the UK), 01 511 9836 (from Ireland) or +44 1202 663234 (from any other country), or write to us at RNLI Support Centre, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ. Blind and partially sighted people can choose to receive a free CD or mp3 of the magazine The Royal National Lifeboat Institution is the charity that saves lives at sea. We do so by providing a rescue service, safety education, and supervision on beaches. We also influence other organisations, policy-makers and regulators. Our crews and lifeguards have saved over 144,000 lives since the RNLI was formed in 1824.

Our Water Safety teams help keep people safe at the coast and our International teams work to reduce drowning around the world where it’s a major risk. We are independent from government and rely on voluntary contributions and gifts in Wills for income.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution, a charity registered in England and Wales (209603), Scotland (SC037736), the Republic of Ireland (CHY 2678 and 20003326), the Bailiwick of Jersey (14), the Isle of Man (1308 and 006329F), the Bailiwick of Guernsey and Alderney

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Welcome

Thank you for your courage and support How will you spend your Christmas Day? Will you sail to your favourite port? Tuck into a roast dinner? Or binge watch old episodes of Holby City with a box of chocs? (Don’t judge me!)

Whatever you get up to, I want to thank you for supporting our crew this year. Any of our crew could be called out at any time.

The crew at Tower Lifeboat Station are definitely on duty at Christmas. Find out more on page 24.

This Christmas, we’re treating you to some cracking rescue stories (page 8) and we’re giving

you an insight into how data gathering helps us in our mission to save every one (page 18).

Thank you for all your support this Christmas and over the years.

As we’re nearing the 200th year of the RNLI, we’re counting on generations of courage and support, past and present.

Merry Christmas from all your RNLI family and all the best for 2024.

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In this issue REGULARS 4 News Keeping you up to date with everything RNLI 22 Me and my ...

Find out what’s special to Helm Paul Weston 30 Shelf life Browse these book reviews 38 Special delivery Your letters, posts and pictures

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42 Your RNLI family The lives and loves of your fellow lifesavers

IN DEPTH 18 I’ve got chills Keeping you safe this winter with data-driven top tips 24

Tower Lifeboat Station: a lifesaving landmark

History at the heart of London 29

Lifesaver Meet Annie, lifeguard and crew member

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RESCUE 8

Rescue stories

Action stations 10 Seconds from disaster Baptism of fire for new coxswain 13

In the grip of a rip Bodyboarder Matthew shares his story

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Swallowed by the dark Search for two missing sailors

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'Something’s wrong’ How you helped diver Jeff in an emergency Lifeboat winter 2023–24 3

News

YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING RNLI

Spring Lifeboat, special issue In February 2024, look out for your special anniversary issue of Lifeboat magazine – part of your RNLI 200 souvenir birthday pack. For those of you who also read Offshore magazine, please be aware that there will be no spring issue in the pack.

It will be back in the summer.

Swim Safe anniversary This year marks 10 years since we partnered with Swim England to establish Swim Safe.

Since then we’ve taught vital water safety skills, for free, to over 160,000 children.

More than a third of people helped by lifeguards in 2022 were 7–14 years old.

RNLI Water Safety Education Manager James Woodhouse says: ‘By educating children about water safety from a young age, together we can help reduce the number of incidents involving open water.’

Swim Safe at Spring Lakes, Long Eaton

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Daren Bell celebrates with the RNLI crew

An Omaze-ing win all round!

In September, ex-paratrooper and former skydiver Daren Bell was announced as the winner of the RNLI’s Omaze Million Pound House Draw. Daren wins a breathtaking £4.5M coastal home in Norfolk and £100,000 in cash. And the draw raised an incredible sum for the RNLI: £1.4M! Daren says: ‘Even if I hadn’t won, I was happy

knowing I was supporting a worthy cause. I’m so chuffed that the money raised from this Omaze draw is going to help the RNLI – I live nearby an RNLI station in Bournemouth so appreciate the lifesaving work they do.’

Congratulations Daren! Thank you to everybody who entered the draw.

NEWS

AGM 2024: Save the date Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held at 30 Euston Square, London, on Thursday 20 June 2024

at 2pm. It’s open to all RNLI governors. For more information please visit RNLI.org/AGM.

In brief Drone trials We’re working with the Royal Life Saving Society UK to test the use of a new Emergency Response Drone Pilot rescue service they’ve developed with Eagle Eye Innovations. Watch this space!

Join the team Know a people person who’s passionate about the RNLI? They could have the ideal qualities to become an RNLI face-toface (F2F) fundraiser. Our fundraisers approach members of the public to give water safety advice and to inspire regular giving.

Team member Tristen Gillet says: ‘I’ve been lucky enough to work as an RNLI lifeguard and F2F fundraiser for 10 years. Being a fundraiser allows me to inspire new support and ensure others can continue the same lifesaving work for the next 200 years!’

For more information, visit RNLI.org/F2F. Could you join our Face-to-Face Fundraising Team?

Luke Curry is a volunteer crew member at Walmer RNLI and a face-to-face fundraiser. He says: ‘I’ve witnessed first-hand the important work the RNLI do to save lives at sea. I have so much love and respect for the charity I couldn’t think of a better job than working for them directly. The role has offered huge development opportunities.

This truly is my best and the best job ever!’

Photos: Mark Field Photography, Adam Jones, RNLI/(Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Nigel Millard, Phil Monckton, Walmer)

Lifeguards prepare to launch the drone at Crantock Beach in Newquay

Royal visit In July, St Ives RNLI welcomed Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla as part of their first official visit to Cornwall since the Coronation.

HM King Charles III meets crew from St Ives RNLI

Coming up on 200 Voices Have you listened to our special RNLI 200 daily podcast yet?

Look out for episodes coming up with Olympian Helen Glover and Solomon Browne songwriter Seth Lakeman. Tune in at RNLI.org/200voices.

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 5

Community Welcome to a selection of news from your RNLI community.

For all the latest from where you are, head to RNLI.org/news

COURTOWN

LARGS

Fundraisers hit the ground running Courtown’s newly formed fundraising branch has brought fresh ideas to a muchloved annual event. The second Sunday in July is Courtown’s traditional Sea Sunday, where the community gathers for a special prayer Sea Sunday support from Lifeboat Operations service to bless Manager Sam Kennedy the local boats and his wife Anne – including the lifeboat, fishing and pleasure vessels – and to remember those who’ve died at sea, particularly off their own coastline.

This year, fundraisers reintroduced a family fun day in the style of a village fete, with a number of stalls helping to raise vital lifesaving funds. The whole community rallied, with donations from local supporters, garden centres, farms and pubs, offering something for everyone.

The team raised an incredible €6,000 and are full of fun ideas for 2024 – including a duck race and yellow welly throwing competition!

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Lucky ducks

Largs crew members with 1,600 ducks!

People went quackers for the much-anticipated Largs RNLI Duck Race in July.

Volunteer crew members were deployed into Gogo Burn to safely escort 1,600 small yellow competitors as they raced down the burn, avoiding rocks, branches and even real-life ducks along the way.

Crowds cheered from the bridges and banks as 10-yearold Ollie Barker’s duck dipped

its bill over the finish line first, followed shortly after by Crew Member James Walsh’s duck in second place, with Ian McCaig’s duck swimming into third position.

Largs Fundraising Chair Linn Munton says: ‘It was fantastic to see so many people out supporting the Largs RNLI Duck Race. My thanks go to all involved in arranging this quacking event, and to all of those who bought a ticket.’

COMMUNITY

GRAVESEND

RNLI volunteers teach throwline techniques to Port of London Authority staff

Sharing lifesaving skills on the Thames In August, the Port of London Authority (PLA) invited Gravesend RNLI’s Water Safety Team to deliver waterside responder training to its staff. The PLA covers 95 miles of the River Thames, from Teddington to the North Sea. It works to keep commercial and leisure users safe, protect and enhance the environment, and promote the use of the river for trade and travel.

RNLI Water Safety Officer John Robinson outlines what was covered in the training, given by

HUNSTANTON

RNLI volunteers: ‘It included dealing with cold water shock, calling for help and practical sessions on throwing a throwline to a casualty in the water. Gravesend RNLI is based at the PLA’s Royal Terrace Pier, so it’s the perfect setting to showcase techniques that could help save a life.

‘Thank you to the Port of London Authority for inviting us to hold this training session and shine a light on the importance of these water safety tips and advice.’

The young artists sculpt their creations

Sandcastle showdown In August, young RNLI supporters hit the beach with their buckets and spades for Hunstanton RNLI’s annual sandcastle competition.

More than 100 children took part in the much-loved seaside showdown close to the lifeboat station, shrugging off stormy skies and digging in to help raise vital funds.

Judge and Hunstanton Lifeboat Guild Chair Derek Greening says: ‘The standard was excellent. It was lovely to see so many families out on the beach enjoying themselves.’

Station Visits Officer Kate Craven adds: ‘I was delighted by the community spirit and public affection for the RNLI, our station and what it does. It was heart-warming.’

The perfect gift Share your love of the RNLI with your family with a year's Storm Force membership for just £14/€12.50 – the perfect Christmas gift for kids under 11. They’ll receive an exclusive crew bag, pencil case, stickers and more, plus four fantastic magazines – filled with puzzles, comics, rescue stories and safety advice.

Order before 15 December to get delivery in time for Christmas! Head to your local lifeboat station or order at shop.RNLI.org/StormForce.

GET INVOLVED There are interesting and exciting RNLI events happening near you.

To find out what's going on in your area, head to RNLI.org/events.

Photos: RNLI/(Ashley Bard, Chris Bishop, Claire McRae, James Stayte)

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RESCUE STORIES As a supporter, you are helping our lifeboat crews and lifeguards carry out thousands of rescues every year.

Here are some highlights, and you can read full accounts of other rescues on the following pages: 6 PETERHEAD | PAGE 10 7 PERRAN SANDS | PAGE 13 8 LOUGH DERG | PAGE 14 9 LYME REGIS | PAGE 16 And for more rescue stories, head to RNLI.org/magazine.

DITCHED AIRCRAFT PORTHCAWL | 13 JUNE

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When a light aircraft ditched into the sea, emergency services were called to the scene, including Porthcawl’s B and D class lifeboats, and Port Talbot’s D class lifeboat. Thankfully, the pilot was OK and was taken into the care of the Coastguard Rescue Team. After ensuring the aircraft was secure and wouldn’t become a danger to navigation, the three lifeboat crews returned to their stations.

RESCUE STORIES

IRISH SEA ROWERS

HOLYHEAD | 13 AUGUST

Early one Sunday morning Holyhead volunteers received an urgent call to help a rowing boat after one of the 12 rowers fell ill. They launched the Severn class lifeboat. Once on scene, they discovered another casualty had fallen overboard, and the other

rowers were suffering from fatigue.

Deploying the smaller Y-boat, the lifeboat crew brought the two casualties aboard the lifeboat. The coxswain judged that the Irish Sea conditions were 'overwhelming' and towed the boat back to shore.

SINKING CRUISER

INJURED PARAGLIDER

YARMOUTH | 20 JULY

WHITSTABLE | 28 AUGUST

A 6.15am Mayday call saw Yarmouth all-weather lifeboat crew launch to rescue 14 people onboard a motor cruiser that was rapidly taking on water. Upon arrival, the casualties were preparing to get into their liferaft but were transferred to the safety of the lifeboat instead, with the help of Freshwater Independent Lifeboat and the Coastguard. The sinking motor cruiser ran aground and was later salvaged.

It took great skill and effort from multiple emergency services to rescue a paraglider who had suffered a spinal injury.

Whitstable’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat crew worked with Coastguard Rescue Teams, a Hazardous Area Response Team and Helicopter Emergency Medical Services to safely move the casualty from the base of the cliff and into the lifeboat.

Once ashore, the casualty was flown to King’s College Hospital.

FRIEND IN NEED

WHITBY | 22 JULY

A dog walker who slipped on rocks, injuring her ankle, was lucky to have a friend with her who was able to scramble over the rocks to get a phone signal and dial 999.

With help from the Coastguard Rescue Team, Whitby’s inshore lifeboat crew transferred the casualty and her dogs into the lifeboat and took them to safety.

They advised her to rest and ice her swollen ankle.

Photos: RNLI/(Tom Dale, Holyhead, Sam Turner, Whitby, Yarmouth)

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 9

SECONDS FROM DISASTER With a fishing crew dangerously close to rocks in violent seas, Pat Davidson knew his first shout as volunteer coxswain would be one he’d never forget Words: Jon Jones

It was barely above freezing when a powerful gale hit Peterhead on 7 February 2021. RNLI Coxswain Pat Davidson and a few of his crew mates had gathered at the harbour, late afternoon, to keep an eye on a fishing boat that was being towed in by another. Everything was going well until the tow rope parted. Both vessels were tossed around in huge seas just outside the breakwater.

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Powerless, the Opportunus IV was drifting close to rocks.

‘I felt the hairs on the back of my neck stand up,' says Pat. 'I'd already asked the duty mechanic to ready the lifeboat, then the pagers went off at around 4.30pm.' The RNLI volunteers headed to the lifeboat station, kitted up and launched their Tamar class lifeboat The Misses Robertson of Kintail into the fray.

‘It was pretty tough getting out of the harbour against the wind,' remembers Pat. 'Peterhead’s on the east coast and this was an easterly gale, so progress was a balancing act between throttles down and keeping her steady enough for the volunteers on deck to prepare the tow.

'We heard the skipper over the radio and you could tell from his tone that things were desperate.

RESCUE STORIES Top left: The fishing boat at the mercy of the sea, close to rocks. The crew of a nearby fishing boat attempts to tow them to safety, but the tow rope keeps breaking Top right: The lifeboat arrives and Pat gets as close as possible to set up the tow Bottom left: The Tamar class lifeboat tows the fishing boat clear of the rocks Bottom right: Back in the safety of the harbour

‘As soon as I saw how close Opportunus IV was to the rocks I shouted down for the mechanic to request a rescue helicopter.

I didn’t know if we’d make it in time.’

‘I felt the hairs on the back of my neck stand up’ As the lifesavers passed the pier, they headed south and hit a large swell. Then a 7m wave struck their port bow. ‘It was so violent that I was knocked from one side of the upper steering position to the other,’ say Pat. ‘I’d not experienced anything like that in 25 years’ service.’ The coxswain immediately turned to check on his deck crew and was relieved to see them safe, on their feet, and secured to the guardrails.

Arriving at the scene, it was clear that the fishing boat and her crew were moments from disaster and the helicopter was still miles away. ‘We couldn’t go around the boat,’ says Pat. ‘She was too close to shore and there were too many breaking waves.

We checked to make sure there were no stray lines from the previous effort, then I turned the lifeboat into the wind.’ Pat knew he only had one attempt to place his craft in a good position. Waiting for a lull between

swells, he managed to get them in close enough, without damaging either boat.

The RNLI volunteers on deck needed to get the tow across, without delay. Crew Member Jonathan Hutton made an expert throw and the heaving line landed first time. But this was only part one of the task: the crew of Opportunus IV now had to pull the line onboard to get the lifeboat’s tow rope. It was a struggle. Not only was the rope heavy, but ferocious waves were sweeping it down the port side of the fishing vessel.

The RNLI deck hands couldn't risk paying out any more line so, with excellent seamanship, Pat allowed the lifeboat to be washed alongside the casualty vessel while keeping its head to sea. He did this while also ensuring that the rope didn’t get washed beneath the casualty’s hull or get fanned up in the lifeboat’s own propellers.

Pat says: 'It was a relief to see the fishermen haul the tow rope onboard and make it fast. By the way one was moving his arms, I knew he wanted me to start pulling right away. But with RNLI training fresh in my mind, I knew the power that rope would unleash if it snapped. So I made everyone clear the decks and get to a safe area first.’

With the tow rope now safely attached, Pat used the Tamar's powerful 2,000hp

‘I’ve never been on a rescue so time critical’ This was my first shout in command – you could say it was a baptism of fire. I’ve never been on a rescue so time critical.

Of course, I’ve been out in many a poor night but the combination of large swells, and the backwash from the breakwater and pier, made this a little different.

PAT DAVIDSON COXSWAIN, PETERHEAD RNLI

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 11

engines to pull the 160-tonne fishing vessel away from the rocks. ‘Once we got a bit of momentum I was just feathering the throttles, praying that the tow wouldn’t part,’ he says.

The lifesavers knew the safest option was to get the fishing boat straight into the bay and, once they were within the relative safety of the harbour, three local tugs took over and put Opportunus IV alongside the quay. The whole operation was over within an hour, with about 15 minutes of towing.

‘It was all so fast,’ says Pat. ‘But I can’t lie, my heart was in my mouth a few times. My main concern was for my crew and lifeboat, especially during those violent rolls. And of, course, the lives of the fishing crew. If their vessel had hit the rocks, it would have heeled over and thrown those guys overboard. They would have had no chance in those conditions.

‘Knowing we played a part in saving five lives is a wonderful feeling,’ he says.

‘To say I'm proud of my crew would be an understatement. I’m privileged to call them my crew mates. And we couldn’t have done it without our supporters, of course. I can’t thank them enough – it’s their kindness that keeps our props turning.’ ■

Lifesaving recognised In March 2023, Coxswain Pat Davidson received an RNLI Chairman’s Letter of Commendation for his efforts in saving the lives of the five fishing crew. Crew Members Mike Dyke, Jonathan Hutton, Murdo Mackenzie, Martyn Simpson and Craig Aird also received a Lifesaving Operations Director’s Letter of Commendation for their vital parts in the rescue. Jimmy Thomson, skipper of Opportunus IV, joined the awards ceremony to personally thank the lifesaving volunteers.

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Peterhead’s Tamar class lifeboat The Misses Robertson of Kintail in calmer conditions

Photos: Nicholas Leach, Craig Meheut, Wullie Marr/DC Thomson, RNLI/Peterhead

The RNLI's Jill Hepburn with Peterhead Crew Members (l–r): Craig, Murdo, Martyn, Mike, Jonathan and Pat

RESCUE STORIES

IN THE GRIP OF A RIP Bodyboarder Matthew Lake couldn’t resist the lure of the surf early one morning at Perran Sands. He told Lifeboat what happened …

Words: Niki Holt

It was overcast and blustery that morning but having only arrived the day before, I wanted to get straight into the waves. I passed the lifeguard station and noticed it wasn’t open. It was around 9.15am.

Because the tide was so far out and the water choppy and churning, it was hard to catch a wave. So I waded out further, up to my chest. That’s when I felt the rip current pulling me out of my depth.

I tried to paddle toward shore, hoped a wave might take me in. Instead they crashed onto me and I swallowed a lot of water. The few people who were on the beach couldn’t hear me scream for help.

That was a bad moment, being so close to safety but unable to get there.

I felt panic rising. I was running out of ideas, time and strength. I thought about ditching my board and swimming for it.

Then I saw the Land Rover turn toward me.

I thought: ‘Oh my God, that must be the RNLI! I’ve got to hang in there.’

One of the lifeguards, Ben, came out on a rescue board. He told me to climb on but the waves knocked us both off – a few times. That was scary. But Ben kept calm and got us both back to the beach.

I couldn’t thank him right away, I was retching into the sand, but as soon as I could, I did. He saved my life.

Ben and another lifeguard, Charlie, checked me over at the station, called the ambulance and gave me a cup of tea.

Completely exhausted and truly grateful, I called my wife, Claire.

Matthew Lake shares his story

‘Lives, like mine, are saved thanks to generations of support and a legacy of courage’ I feel so foolish now. I know I got off lightly. But I learned a lot: I’ll only go into the water on lifeguarded beaches, rip currents can be hard to spot and even harder to get out of, and that lives, like mine, are saved thanks to generations of support and a legacy of courage. Ben and Charlie were there that day because of it.

And I’m here because of it too.

In case you were wondering – not wanting to develop a phobia, I went into the sea the very next day. But I stayed strictly between the flags! ■ For Float to Live advice and how stories plus data help us spread our safety messages, turn to page 18.

Lifeguards Charlie and Ben

Perranporth and Perran Sands Beaches have RNLI lifeguards

Photos: Mick Blakey, Matthew Lake, Max Redwood, Shutterstock

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 13

SWALLOWED BY

THE DARK With two people missing on Lough Derg in the early hours, the lifeboat crew would need all their local knowledge, sharp eyes and kit to find them Words: Jon Jones

Setting out from the north of the lough, at Portumna, a small yacht was long overdue at its destination in Mountshannon – normally 3 hours away. Concerned friends reported they had not heard from the pair onboard for 7 hours, so Valentia Coast Guard requested that Lough Derg RNLI launch an immediate search.

‘When the pager goes off at 1.30am, you get a massive surge of adrenaline,’ says RNLI Helm Eleanor Hooker. ‘Nobody calls us that time of the morning unless it's serious.’ Less than 10 minutes later, Eleanor was at the helm of the station’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Jean Spier, joined by her crew mates Doireann Kennedy, Ciara Lynch and Chris Parker.

Although there was only a light breeze, the cold and starless night presented a challenge for the lifeboat volunteers. ‘It felt like we were being absorbed by a huge cave,’ says Eleanor.

‘We had to dim our navigation gear to adjust our eyes to the blackness.’

The volunteers quickly oriented themselves, confirming their electronic charts and GPS coordinates with local knowledge and emerging light 14 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

patterns back on land. Chris plotted a reverse course to the yacht’s, with the volunteers starting their search at Mountshannon and heading north.

‘Nobody calls us that time of the morning unless it's serious’ ELEANOR HOOKER HELM | LOUGH DERG RNLI

The crew searched in the pitch dark for around 15 minutes until around 1.50am, when Ciara spotted a ghostly outline to the port side. ‘I wasn’t sure what it was but Doireann picked up an object on radar at exactly the same time,’ she says. ‘We directed our searchlight and, sure enough, it was the missing vessel.’

It was an eerie scene: there were no lights, sounds or signals. The yacht was just off Parker’s Point, a spot notorious for shallows and steep waves – and with no power or sail, it was dead in the water. ‘The guys onboard would have been at risk of hypothermia from just being out on

the lough all night,’ says Chris.

‘And if they had gone overboard, their chances of survival would have been low. Fresh water is colder than the sea.’

As the lifeboat volunteers got closer, they saw the two men onboard. They were cold and anxious, but otherwise safe and well. Eleanor knew the best course of action was to tow them to the nearest safe harbour. ‘We were close enough to Garrykennedy to tow them alongside,’ she says. ‘I didn't want them behind us in the dark. We needed to have them up close, where we could see they were safe.’

Ciara was able to explain the plan to the Portuguese casualties by using a translation app on her mobile. Chris then boarded their yacht and set up a tow before returning to the lifeboat.

The crew asked the skipper to lift his propellers to reduce drag.

Chris and Doireann plotted a safe route to Garrykennedy and, as the lifeboat and the disabled yacht approached the mouth of the harbour some 20 minutes later, Ciara took to the bow of the Atlantic 85 to help guide them in with the searchlight.

‘That particular breakwater is tricky to negotiate in the day, never mind at night,’ says Eleanor. ‘There are a lot of hazards. We took it slowly, allowing plenty of room for drift. Doireann called out the navigation markers from the radar, Chris and I verified them with our knowledge of the area and Ciara lit them up. It was great communication and teamwork.’

By 2.30am the RNLI crew had secured the yacht in the harbour and arranged for a friend to come and collect the casualties. The lifesavers then headed for home, arriving back on station in Dromineer just before 3am. Deputy Launching Authority Peter Kennedy and Crew Member Joe O'Donoghue were waiting on the pontoon, ready to help wash down and refuel the lifeboat.

‘It was so lovely to have those friendly faces welcoming us home.’ says Eleanor. ‘The lights were on and there was a hot cuppa waiting. I can't tell you how much that means.’ ■

Step by step: rescue on a starless night

The crew launch the lifeboat

Eleanor Hooker, Helm and Lifeboat Press Officer at Lough Derg

Photos: RNLI/(Eleanor Hooker, Peter Hooker, Nathan Williams), Shutterstock

They spot a ghostly outline of the yacht

‘It’s a family thing’ DOIREANN KENNEDY CREW MEMBER | LOUGH DERG RNLI

I joined the crew in 2019 but my dad, Peter, has been the Deputy Launching Authority for more than a decade. He’s a mechanic too, so usually gets the engines running and the lifeboat dressed and ready to go. My sister is also involved – she's the station administrator. So, it’s a family thing. My mum’s delighted that I’m on the crew but gets anxious when we go out at night. She will stay up until I’m home safe.

Chris boards the yacht to set up a tow

The yacht and crew reach safe harbour Lifeboat winter 2023–24 15

The Lyme Regis Atlantic 85, Spirit of Loch Fyne

‘Something’s wrong’

According to divers Jeff Everett and Robin Fitzgerald there was nothing unusual about their dive to the wreck of the St Dunstan – until there was Words: Niki Holt

'Someone switched the stars off' ROBIN FITZGERALD, DIVER The visibility quickly became murky as we descended. Not a surprise as our last dive the day before was so dark, it was like being in space and someone switched the stars off. We could feel the wreck more than see it.

Because of the poor viz, we tethered together with a ‘buddy line’ on the sea bed to ensure we didn’t become separated. At 30 metres, I checked my equipment and everything seemed OK. 16 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

The feeling that something was wrong came on quickly – I would describe it as surreal – but I just couldn’t shake the need to get to the surface quickly.

I signalled Jeff to stop the dive, watched him send up the DSMB [delayed surface marker buoy], but then I must have blacked out. I came to on the boat with the sound of helicopter wings beating above.

I met Jeff a week later and we

shared a couple of beers down the pub. We may also have shared a hug – I got a few that night!

Because of the damage to my lungs – I had a pulmonary barotrauma and an air embolism trapping a nerve – I’ve been advised by doctors that it’s no longer safe to dive. But I’m blending my love of the air (I’m a paraglider) with my love of the sea and learning to kitesurf.

RESCUE STORIES

‘Fast to launch, fast in the water’ JON BROOME, HELM AT LYME REGIS With launches to divers, it’s usually because they’ve become detached from the dive boat and we’re called to help locate them. This one was different – an unconscious diver with possible decompression sickness is a very serious shout.

Speed was important and our Atlantic 85 is fast to launch and fast in the water.

We arrived on scene just before the helicopter and quickly put two crew members onboard the dive boat to carry out welfare checks and support the Coastguard helicopter team once they were onboard.

Any transfer, whether it’s boat to boat

or boat to helicopter, can be tricky and on occasion dangerous. Good performance goes hand in hand with regular training, both as a crew and with other rescue services and we managed both transfers without issue.

After Robin was safely winched onto the helicopter to be taken to hospital, it was decided that Jeff would return with us on the lifeboat to Lyme Regis where he’d be checked over by a paramedic.

As a crew we know every launch is funded by the people we serve. And we see the lifesaving results of our donors’ generosity with every rescue.

‘We see the lifesaving results of our donors’ generosity with every rescue’

(l–r:) Robin, Jon and Jeff

‘I want to ascend’

Photos: Jeff Everett, Robin Fitzgerald, Max Redwood, RNLI/Lyme Regis

JEFF EVERETT, DIVER Twenty seven minutes into the dive, Robin gave me the ‘something’s wrong’ and then the ‘I want to ascend‘ hand signal. He seemed lethargic, I sensed he was becoming quite ill, so I inflated and sent up a DSMB so the boat would know where to pick us up.

Our dive profile indicated the need for a 3-minute safety stop at 6 metres. This allows the body to release gases that have been under pressure at depth, safely. Ascending too fast can result in damaged lungs, what is commonly called ‘the bends’ or decompression sickness, and sometimes even death.

Robin’s condition made him unable to dump air from his dry suit or buoyancy control device (BCD) quickly enough. We were still tethered and as the air expanded we were both pulled up quickly and missed our safety stop. I tried my best to control our ascent but the last

8 metres was rapid and uncontrolled.

When we surfaced, Robin was not moving and was face down in the water. I inflated his BCD fully to keep him afloat and pulled him onto his back. His mouthpiece had fallen out and the only movements he made were to vomit and cough. That’s when I noticed the blood.

The boat picked us up quickly. On deck I could see Robin’s lips and fingertips were blue so he was given oxygen. I don’t know if it was that or the sound of the helicopter, but he started coming round.

I’ve always felt reassured by the presence of the RNLI and Coastguard. It takes generations to hone the skills, knowledge and courage to save lives. But seeing first-hand just how good they are at their jobs has given me a new level of respect. ■

JEFF SAYS: 'This experience drove home how important it is to practise rescue skills and carry appropriate safety equipment.

'Without the DSMB, it would have taken longer to find us and get Robin the help he needed.'

Hear more from Jeff in an episode of 200 Voices at RNLI.org/jeff

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 17

I’VE GOT CHILLS Blow away the cobwebs with these top safety tips for getting outdoors and enjoying the coast. Plus we reveal the data behind our lifesaving advice Words: Vicki Lovegrove-Fray

When it’s not blowing a gale outside, winter at the coast can be good for the soul. A time to breathe in some fresh sea air, to soak up some natural vitamin D and to enjoy some quieter beaches.

But, just like our lifeboat volunteers who brave all weathers to save every one they can, you still need to be prepared with the right kit, equipment and know-how for your chosen activity.

Doing so could save your life. How do we know? It’s all in the data.

BE WINTER-WISE, WHATEVER YOUR ACTIVITY 1. Know your activity Our safety advice covers a range of water-based and waterside activities to help keep you safe at Carry your mobile the coast. Whatever activity you phone in a waterproof do, and no matter how experienced pouch around your neck or in you are, taking a few minutes to your buoyancy understand and remind yourself

TOP TIP aid pocket

18 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

of the risks could save your life.

Visit RNLI.org/MyActivity.

2. Plan ahead Know your route, on land or at sea. Check weather and marine forecasts, and tide times.

FEATURE

FACT

Did you know slips and falls when walking and running are the biggest cause of death on our coastlines?

TOP TIP

Go with family, friends or an organised group

3. Dress smart In the water this may include a winter wetsuit, and a buoyancy aid or lifejacket. On land this includes well-fitting walking shoes to help reduce the risk of slipping, and the three-layer rule – a base layer to remove moisture, a mid layer for warmth, and a windproof and waterproof outer layer for protection from the elements.

4. Pack essentials Take a means of calling for help, such as a charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.

Depending on your activity, this may also include a personal locator beacon (PLB) and/or a VHF radio.

Other things you might take include a map, whistle, waterproofs, snacks, water, change robe, and

a hot drink. (See page 28 for winter safety essentials available from RNLI Shop.)

5. Buddy up Go with friends, family or an organised group. Or tell someone ashore what you’re doing, where you’re going and how long you’ll be.

6. Be snap safe Check for dangers when taking photos. And when on land, be wary of all edges – it’s not just high cliff edges that are a risk.

7. Float to Live No matter how experienced or prepared you are, things can still go wrong. If you get into trouble in the water, remember our Float to Live advice on page 21.

SAVING MORE LIVES THROUGH DATA Behind all RNLI water safety advice and initiatives is a team of in-house water safety experts and data analysts who use evidence, insight and behaviour change theory to inform everything that we do.

We also partner with relevant organisations and brands to gain further insight, and to work together to keep more people safe.

Sharper focus, greater impact To ensure our water safety advice and initiatives are the most effective at saving lives, we need to understand:

WHO

is drowning in our waters?

WHERE are people drowning?

WHY

are they drowning?

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 19

RNLI activity profiles enable a sharper focus on the safety advice that will have the greatest impact

Activity profiles To answer these questions, our Water Safety Team use RNLI search and rescue data to develop in-depth profiles for the water-based and waterside activities that our lifeboat crews get called out to.

Each activity profile gives a wealth of information, which helps to identify: • who is at greatest risk of drowning, including age and gender. We can then deduce what type of media they respond to and what communication channels they use.

• where in the UK and Ireland most accidents and fatalities occur, including local hot spots and communities.

• when accidents and fatalities are most likely to happen, from time of year to time of day.

• how accidents occur. For example, through slips and falls when out walking or running, capsizing in a kayak, or being washed off rocks while angling.

• why people drown. For example, from the effects of cold water shock after falling into the water, having no means of calling for help when kayaking, or not wearing a lifejacket when angling.

We use these activity profiles to focus on the: • advice or intervention that will have the greatest impact on changing behaviour and saving lives, and • the most effective ways to reach and educate those most at risk.

DRI scores Another method that informs our decision-making is our deaths, rescues and injuries (DRI) scale.

Using the information submitted by our lifeboat crews after every 20 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

By identifying the areas where most coastal drownings or severe incidents occur, we can allocate more resources to those areas.

Another important benefit is to the wellbeing of our lifeboat volunteers, who may need extra support if they’re responding frequently to severe incidents.

service, we give lifeboat shouts a DRI score based on its severity. The more serious the outcome, and the more casualties affected, the higher the DRI score.

Ranking lifeboat shouts in this way helps to accurately identify those activities that carry the greatest risk, enabling our regional water safety teams to concentrate their efforts on advice and interventions that are most likely to reduce deaths and serious incidents in their area.

'Our Water Safety Team use RNLI search and rescue data to develop in-depth profiles for the activities that our lifeboat crews get called to'

THE POWER OF STORYTELLING Susan Beetlestone was saved by Rhyl lifeboat after she was cut off by the tide while walking her dogs Jerry and Bazz. She was up to her thighs in water. Thankfully, she had a mobile phone with her and was able to call for help.

Susan’s telling her story to help us reach more people with our data-informed, lifesaving advice: • Check the tides before you go.

And while you’re out, be aware of your surroundings and the tide’s direction.

• Carry a charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.

Susan Beetlestone, plus her dogs Jerry and Bazz, are helping to save lives

• If you’re worried about the safety of your dog, don’t go after them. Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.

Learn more at RNLI.org/walking.

Watch and read Susan’s story at RNLI.org/susan.

Photos: BBC News, Scott Ramsey, RNLI/(Harrison Bates, Nigel Millard, Callum Robinson, Nick Smith, Nathan Williams)

FEATURE

LIVES SAVED

BY SAFETY ADVICE More and more people are telling us how they believe our water safety advice saved their life.

The Taylor family’s story Parents Natalia and Ben Taylor are certain our Float to Live advice saved their daughters’ lives when they were swept out to sea in an inflatable unicorn.

To avoid drifting any further, 12-year-old twins Evie and Lola jumped off the unicorn and tried to grab hold of a buoy but missed.

That’s when Evie remembered the Float to Live advice they’d been given by an RNLI face-to-face fundraiser just the day before.

After being rescued by a passing pleasure boat, the girls were overjoyed to see their dad Ben aboard Margate’s lifeboat. The crew had rescued him after he’d swam out to sea, frantically looking for his daughters. The lifeboat crew brought Ben and the girls safely back to shore and into the care of the RNLI lifeguards.

TOP TIP

Learn and practise how to float – even if you don’t intend to get wet

How to Float to Live Swimming pools are the best place for inflatables. They’re also the best place to learn how to float and practise your float technique.

Remember this Float to Live advice, just like Evie and Lola did, and share it with your family and friends.

1. T ilt your head back with your ears submerged.

2. Relax and try to breathe normally.

3. M ove your hands to help you stay afloat.

4. I t’s OK if your legs sink – we all float differently.

5. Spread your arms and legs to improve stability.

Never enter the water to help someone else. Instead tell them how to float, throw them a lifering or throw bag if available, and call the coastguard for help on 999 or 112. Watch how to float at RNLI.org/FloatToLive. ■

Saved by Float to Live advice: The Taylor family thank their rescuers at Margate Lifeboat Station. Read more on their story at RNLI.org/TaylorFamily

DATA: THE REAL GAME CHANGER ‘When two men lost their lives after being washed off rocks while fishing in Cornwall in 2017, I remember being struck by words like “freak wave” and “unforeseen accident” in news articles. The information to foresee this terrible tragedy was all there. It was just that nobody had joined it all together at that time. We know there’s no such thing as a freak wave, the sea is unpredictable and weather is changeable. Checking marine and weather forecasts and taking safety precautions can help to prepare for this.

‘Now we have a robust, synced, evidence-informed approach to everything that we do at the RNLI, which is the real game changer in preventing tragedies like this. It’s an approach that is considered world-leading.

‘Through data, we know the level of risk with rock angling.

We know where in the UK and Ireland incidents are most likely to happen. We have a better understanding of who is likely to go rock angling and how to reach them. And we know the single piece of advice that could save their lives is to wear a lifejacket.

‘With your support, we’re constantly looking at ways data could make our lifesaving service even more effective – on our mission to save every one.’

Guy Addington MBE Regional Water Safety Lead for south-east England and Helm for Margate RNLI Lifeboat winter 2023–24 21

22 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

ME AND MY ...

Me and my ... volunteering In our latest peek into the lives and loves of our lifeboat volunteers, Portishead Helm Paul Weston reveals what’s special to him

Volunteer Helm Paul Weston holding the lovingly made wooden sign that hangs in Portishead Lifeboat Station. The sign was kindly gifted to the station by its creator, Jon Yabsley

It was my wife who encouraged me to join the lifeboat crew – she thought it’d help me to avoid a mid-life crisis!

It was one of the best things I’ve ever done. Truth be told, I think a lot of us would pay to be on the crew.

I suppose what I wasn’t expecting is the camaraderie.

We’re all different, but when we’re in the lifeboat we all have the same goal and we trust each other with our lives.

And the camaraderie extends beyond the lifeboat station too – six of us are in a sea shanty band called The 85ers.

The RNLI’s values are important because lives depend on them. I remember a few of us volunteers sitting in a café one day, when the chef suddenly fell ill. Some of the crew performed CPR in the kitchen. So in a way, we’re always on duty. ■ Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 23

TOW ER LIFEBOAT S TATION A L I F E S AV I N G L A N D M A R K

When Tower Lifeboat Station was established in the heart of London, the crew never imagined they would become the busiest of all the RNLI’s 238 lifeboat stations – and the first to reach a milestone 10,000 launches …

Words: Nikki McMullen

24 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

HERITAGE

They’re going to need a bigger board! The Tower crew had to improvise to record the huge tally of 10,000 shouts on the board at the station

‘These orange lifeboats are part of London life – like black cabs and red buses’

Many people, even in central London, are unaware of the lifesaving service Tower crew provide, right on their doorstep.

It’s a service that is run predominantly by lifeboat volunteers.

These volunteer crews may not have to deal with big waves or hideous storms like their coastal counterparts, but they have to battle huge tides, fast-moving water, bridges, piers, vast numbers of people and constant river traffic.

These orange lifeboats are part of London life – like black cabs and red buses. But not everyone realises we’ve been here, rescuing Londoners and visitors alike, since 2002.

served by a dedicated rescue service on the Thames. The RNLI was asked by the government to provide lifeboat cover.

In 2002, the RNLI began its lifesaving service on the Thames, with four lifeboat stations at Teddington, Chiswick, Gravesend and Tower. They’re the first lifeboat stations to specifically cover a river.

Tower Lifeboat Station was originally placed by Tower Millennium Pier, next to the Tower of London. But, in 2006, it moved to the Victoria Embankment next to Waterloo Bridge, a location with a fascinating history.

How did lifesaving on the Thames begin?

Waterloo Police Pier

On a warm evening in August 1989, guests celebrated a birthday party onboard the Marchioness pleasure boat, travelling down the River Thames. A few hours later, the pleasure boat and a dredger Bowbelle collided. The Marchioness sank. That night, 51 people lost their lives in the river.

An Inquiry into the disaster recommended that London should be

At Victoria Embankment, the lifeboat station sat on floating pier that dated back to the 1860s.

In fact, people have been saving lives from that pier since 1874 – when Thames Police took up residence. Back then, it was called Waterloo Police Pier and the police relied on Thames Specials – volunteers with boathandling experience. They adopted a Navy-like culture, having to

Tower’s floating pier and building in its original guise as Thames Police Station

18 74 Lifeboat winter 2023–24 25

2006

The old Tower Lifeboat Station (2006–23)

Tower RNLI Crew Member, Nazrawi Mamoneh

Tower RNLI Commander, Neil Ceconi

Tower RNLI Crew Member, Suzanne Goldberg

26 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

remain in uniform at all times and request shore leave.

In 2004, Waterloo Police Pier was bought by the RNLI for a nominal sum of £1. The building and pier underwent essential work to convert it into a lifeboat station, which was generously funded by several donors. It was renamed Lifeboat Pier when Tower RNLI moved there in 2006.

Lifesaving on the Thames The Thames is more than just a river.

It’s a commercial, tourist and transport artery that touches the lives of millions of people. It’s also a killer.

The river’s cold temperature, rapid pace and changing tides make it incredibly dangerous. Speed is of the utmost importance and anyone in the water must be reached within minutes, especially given the constant heavy traffic from passing watercraft of every kind.

That’s why Tower lifeboat crew have to launch within 90 seconds of the Coastguard’s request. It’s also why the crew is on duty around the clock. Ten full-time crew members live and sleep at the station in 4-day shifts, working alongside 55 volunteers.

The Tower lifeboat volunteers come from all walks of life. They train and save lives in

12-hour shifts, which takes commitment and the understanding of their family members and employers.

The station takes a battering While the station at Lifeboat Pier was perfectly placed for saving lives on the Thames, the building began to show its age. The cramped, old barge, which sat on Victorian ironworks and was held in place with timbers, was bashed around with the washing of passing traffic.

It suffered so much wear and tear that it was beyond economic repair.

Not only that, but the station was too small and lacking in proper facilities.

There was no privacy for vulnerable casualties and no dedicated space to dry kit or welcome visitors.

So, in 2021, the RNLI launched the Tower Appeal to build a new floating lifeboat station. The project was supported by the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and other generous donors – you may have donated towards it yourself. Work soon began.

The old Tower Lifeboat Station was floated down the River Thames, to be used

by Thames Marine Services as one of six electrical charging facilities.

In March 2023, the new station was floated to Waterloo Bridge – the same location as the previous station.

Photos: RNLI/(Harrison Bates, Richard Lee, Laura Lewis), courtesy of the Thames Police Association

HERITAGE

Meet the new Tower Lifeboat Station On 28 April 2023, the crew had just started moving into their new home when they had their first shout.

Station Manager Kevin Maynard says: ‘We’re such a busy lifeboat station, keeping people on the Thames safe day and night, that I wasn’t surprised that we went on our first shout just hours after moving in. We’re the busiest crew in the country, and having this incredible new lifeboat station will mean we have everything we need, ready to save lives and care for casualties here in the heart of London.’

What will make the new lifeboat station a better place for our lifesavers and those they rescue? The new station design has: • a private casualty care area to provide first aid care away from public view

•d edicated spaces for training and a visitor centre (by appointment only) opening soon to welcome the public and educate people about water safety • a n expanded crew changing area with a specialist drying cabinet for their kit •m ore spacious and modern accommodation, so the crew have room to rest, recuperate and keep fit during those long shifts • a workshop that opens directly onto the pier, making it easier to carry out routine maintenance on lifeboats.

A lifesaving milestone On 6 June 2023, Tower RNLI hit the incredible milestone of 10,000 lifeboat launches – the first lifeboat station to reach that number.

At 1.09pm, the crew launched after receiving multiple reports of a

person in the water around Battersea.

After a swift launch, they spotted the person, pulled them into their E class lifeboat and carried out initial care, before passing them to the London Ambulance Service.

Volunteer Laura Lewis, who has been on the crew since 2015, says: ‘As soon as the call came in and we knew a person was in the water, we attended as fast as we could. I knew the 10,000th shout was approaching as we have a board up in the station but none of us thought of that at the time – we were just focusing on the job at hand.’

Neil Ceconi, who has been Tower RNLI crew for 6 years, was also on the shout that day. ‘It is a big milestone for the station and the crew. As always, I’m proud of seeing all the crew working together and using their training to help save a life,’ he says. ‘It seems fitting we reached this historic number in our new home.’ ■

In the 21 years since its formation, Tower RNLI volunteers have saved 381 lives over their 10,000 shouts.

To find out more about the station, head to RNLI.org/TowerLB

2 02 3

The new home for the Tower crew

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 27

Shop our full range of winter safety essentials at: shop.RNLI.org/WinterSafety

Be prepared for the winter chill Tis’ the season for cold water dips and festive swims.

But before you do, check out our top tips for staying safe in, on and around the water on page 18. Then add these winter essentials to your Christmas list.

1. RNLI dryrobe® Organic Towel Robe RS2348203BLU | £65

RNLI dryrobe®

2. Aquapac RNLI Waterproof Phone Case RS2238209 | £20 3. Zoggs Inflatable Swimming Safety Buoy RS2238123 | £32

Advance Long Sleeve RS2348201BKR | £175

4. Zoggs Silicone Swim Cap, Red RS2238126RED | £10

1

2

Get changed, stay warm and be protected from the winter elements in this fleece-lined, waterproof and windproof changing robe.

4

3

Every item you buy from RNLI Shop will help save lives at sea.

How to buy Online

On the phone

Free UK delivery on orders over £50

For our full range of products, visit shop.RNLI.org

Call 0300 300 9916 or +44 2038 327234 from outside the UK to order.

Standard UK delivery is FREE when you spend £50 or over. Visit shop.RNLI.org/terms for terms and conditions.

28 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

We’re here to help Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm and Saturday from 8am to 6pm (charges apply). Always get the bill payer's permission.

LIFESAVER

LIFESAVER

Annie Jagoe Read how Annie’s love for lifesaving and surfing helped her to save and rebuild someone’s life

What inspired you to become an RNLI lifeguard?

Surfing is my biggest love. And it’s such a joy to teach. I never found fulfilment working indoors in hospitality or as a pool lifeguard. Many of my friends were beach lifeguarding with the RNLI, so I thought: ‘I’m gonna go for it!’

What’s the best thing about lifeguarding and volunteering?

To know that you help people each day, and have already helped so many people, is such a rewarding feeling. I love being outside, the RNLI’s values and everyone’s positive energy.

What has been your most memorable lifesaving moment?

Hear more Listen to Lifeguard and Portrush Crew Member Annie in 200 Voices: RNLI.org/annie

Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard

It was on 5 June 2021 on Benone Beach.

I’d just become a senior lifeguard. I was in the lifeguard unit and heard over the radio: ‘Unconscious person in the water.’ One of the lifeguards drove down to the water’s edge with a first aid bag.

When I heard, ‘He can’t move his arms or legs’, I ran down with the spinal board.

I was relieved the casualty was now conscious, but was worried about his injuries.

I had a great team with me that day.

Together, we managed to get the spinal board underneath him, lift him out of the water and keep him comfortable until the paramedics arrived.

Later, we were told that Matthew had injured his spinal cord and would probably never walk again. But about 6–8 months later, Matthew got in touch, and we were thrilled to see him walking!

Then, on the first anniversary of his accident, Matthew got in touch again.

He knew I was a surfing instructor and asked if I would help him surf again.

To see him actually standing up on the wave was such an amazing feeling, for him and for me. It’s probably the best lesson I’ve ever given! ■

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 29

SHELF LIFE Study the skies – or escape into a tale of nautical adventure – the choice is yours Reviewed by: Nikki McMullen, Tom Henfrey, Emma Beattie and Tony Karoly

E D IT OR ’S PIC K

Island to Island

From Somerset to Seychelles

by Sally Mills Eagle-eyed readers might recognise the Island to Island title, which we reviewed in Lifeboat magazine last year. For those in need of a refresher, it was a fascinating account of a conservationist couple’s stint working on a nature reserve on Aride Island, Seychelles.

Sally Mills has now brought out a collection of 180 photographs – each accompanied by excerpts from the memoir – offering a glimpse into the realities of living on the small remote island. Regardless of whether you’ve read the memoir, this is the perfect form of escapism and a fascinating insight into tropical island living.

Published by Cranthorpe Millner Price: £16.99

Sailing Pickle round Great Britain

by Charles Warlow Join retired doctor Charles Warlow, and his everchanging crew, on their epic 2,540-mile circumnavigation of Great Britain in this captivating book. Starting in Ardfern in Scotland, Warlow takes us on a vivid journey around the coastline, visiting a range of beautiful, historic and urban locations along the way.

Published by Self Publishing House Price: £17

30 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

Warlow sails with friends and family, interweaving his reflections on life with this enthralling tale of his grand cruise. As well as being an interesting chronicle of his voyage, it’s also an exploration of Great Britain’s coastal sailing history. For anyone dreaming of a grand adventure, this book is well worth a read.

Boatlines

by Ian Stephen

Published by Birlinn General Price: 16.99 (hardback)

Take an alternative tour of the Scottish coast with Ian Stephen’s fascinating compendium. It explores the design and construction of a selection of boats that have served Scotland’s waters over the centuries – from medieval galleys to pleasure steamers. And the book delves deeper, rich with stories, anecdotes and lore about these vessels – as well as those who built them, sailed in them and the communities they served.

History buffs and nautical enthusiasts alike will love this book, which is peppered with charming black and white illustrations of the craft Stephen so beautifully describes. Sail away on this tale of Scotland and the sea.

Skipper’s Cockpit Weather Guide

by Frank Singleton During a sailing trip, have you ever looked up at the clouds and wondered what they would bring?

This handy spiral-bound guide will teach you how to understand weather forecasts – and how to translate your new-found knowledge into action on the water.

Whether it’s your first time venturing out, or you’re a seasoned sailor, the weather will affect your time out at sea. Understanding it, and factoring it into your passage plan, could be lifesaving.

If you’re heading out on the water, you’ll want to keep this practical handbook nearby (and with its splashproof pages, it’s perfect to store onboard).

Reading the Clouds

by Oliver Perkins

Published by Adlard Coles Price: £10.99 Order at shop.RNLI.org

If you’ve ever looked at a sunny weather forecast only to find yourself in a downpour, or just wished you understood the weather better, this handy guide can help. There are chapters on the basics of how weather systems work, the different types of cloud and what they signify, weather forecasting rules and even which of our favourite weather-related sayings are true.

Lots of clear and detailed photographs and diagrams help to identify which clouds you’re seeing, and there’s useful additional detail for hikers and sailors. You’ll never look at the sky in the same way again (and you’ll always know when to pack that umbrella!).

Why not join us?

Are you an armchair explorer? Do you love a nautical yarn?

We’re always looking for new reviewers for Lifeboat magazine.

If you’re interested in penning a 100-word review, please email us.

Published by Adlard Coles Price: £12.99

lifeboat@rnli.org.uk

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 31

LAUNCHES

3,411

Thank you – you are the force behind the lifeboat launches on these pages. Check out the recent action at your favourite lifeboat station with this handy alphabetical list

RNLI RESCUE CRAFT LAUNCHES 1 July to 30 September 2023 The launches listed are those for which returns had been received at the RNLI Support Centre and processed by 10 October 2023.

Photo: James Williams

With a splash – St Davids Tamar class lifeboat Norah Wortley launches down the slipway

32 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

LAUNCHES A

ABERDEEN D-830: Jul 2,22,31, Aug 12, Sep 10 ON1248 (17-24): Jul 2,3,22, Aug 12, Sep 22 B ABERDOVEY B-896: Jul 1, Aug 13,17(x2) ABERSOCH B-886: Jul 3,27,28(x2),29, Aug 2,14(x2),16,22,23,24, Sep 3(x2),7,8,9,14,22 ABERYSTWYTH A-78: Jul 13, Sep 5,22 B-937: Jul 13,18, Aug 10, 20,31, Sep 2,3(x2),4,5,9 ACHILL ISLAND ON1240 (14-28): Jul 14, Aug 6,8,11, Sep 27 AITH ON1232 (17-14): Aug 1, 15,28 ALDEBURGH D-808: Aug 13, Sep 3,21,26 ON1170 (12-13): Sep 20,26 ALDERNEY ON1199 (14-04): Jul 27, Aug 11,15,20(x2),22,23,26, Sep 30 AMBLE D-867: Aug 29 ON1323 (13-16): Jul 11, 13,30 ANGLE ON1291 (16-11): Jul 1,2,9, 10,12,13,20,21,26,29, Aug 3, 4,8,13,15,18(x3),20(x2),23, 25,28,30, Sep 3,4(x2),7,9 ANSTRUTHER D-802: Jul 1,2,11(x2),19, Aug 20,21, Sep 8,14,17 ON1174 (12-17): Jul 1, Aug 8,10,20,21, Sep 8,13,17 APPLEDORE B-861: Jul 2,29, Aug 1,9, 17,20, Sep 4(x2),16,23,24 D-729: Jul 9,17,27, Aug 19, 20,31 ON1293 (16-13): Jul 2,27 ON1296 (16-16): Aug 1(x2), 9(x2),18, Sep 8,11 ARAN ISLANDS ON1217 (17-06): Jul 5(x2), 8,9,10,13(x2),19,20,21(x2), 22,24,27, Aug 3,5,6,14, Sep 14 ON1262 (17-33): Aug 18, 24, Sep 5 ARBROATH D-759: Jul 7,22, Aug 3, 6(x2),16,22, Sep 20 ON1194 (12-35): Aug 22 ARKLOW ON1223 (14-19): Aug 9,21 ARRAN (LAMLASH) B-876: Jul 1,26, Aug 2,10, 16,20

ARRANMORE BB-730: Aug 13 ON1244 (17-22): Jul 2,10, 15,16,17(x3), Aug 6,10,13, Sep 2,9,10,16,17,25 BALLYCOTTON ON1233 (14-25): Aug 22,26, Sep 5,11 BALTIMORE B-910: Jul 1(x2),6,14,27, Aug 24,30 ON1302 (16-22): Jul 1,6,20, 30,31, Aug 15, Sep 7(x2),27 BANGOR (CO DOWN) B-805: Jul 3,8,20,24, Aug 4, 10,20, Sep 2,17 BARMOUTH D-814: Jul 7,9,10(x2),25,29, Aug 4,17(x2),28(x3),31, Sep 3 ON1337 (13-30): Jul 10(x2), Aug 17,26 BARRA ISLAND ON1230 (17-12): Aug 9,10, Sep 7,27 BARROW D-866: Jul 6, Aug 22 ON1288 (16-08): Aug 4,5 BARRY DOCK D-820: Jul 8,19,24(x2), Aug 1(x2),4,9,10,19,20,24,26, Sep 5,7,10 ON1245 (14-29): Jul 1,9(x2), 16,17,18, Aug 4,10,16,17,19, 26, Sep 2,7,10,24,25 BEAUMARIS B-838: Jul 10,11,15(x2) B-895: Aug 10,17(x2),24,26, 31, Sep 2(x4),4,6,7,8,15,23 BEMBRIDGE D-778: Jul 21,29, Aug 2,20, C 27(x2),29,30, Sep 19(x2),22 ON1286 (16-06):Jul 8, 21(x3), Aug 2,6,12,18(x2), 21,30, Sep 5,17,19(x2) ON1297 (16-17): Jul 1(x4) BERWICK-UPON-TWEED B-913: Jul 19,29, Aug 26 D-777: Aug 21, Sep 3,16 BLACKPOOL B-867: Aug 26 B-932: Jul 8,22,26, Aug 4 D-862: Jul 19(x2),21,26, Aug 7,21,22,25, Sep 2 D-864: Jul 8,11,19,21, Aug 21, Sep 2 BLYTH B-923: Jul 30, Aug 13,22,23 D-878: Jul 19,30, Aug 13, Sep 9 BORTH D-760: Aug 3,17 BRIDLINGTON D-852: Jul 29, Aug 1,20, Sep 3,7,9,23

ON1329 (13-22): Aug 1(x2), 19, Sep 9 BRIGHTON B-852: Jul 1,7(x4),20,22,28, Aug 6,9,28(x2), Sep 3,5,9,10, 12,15,16,24 BROUGHTY FERRY D-834: Jul 1(x2),4,5(x2),16, 19,21,24,28,29(x2), Aug 2, 3(x2),10,11(x2),13(x2),16, 21,25,28, Sep 10,11,15(x3), 19,20,23,27 ON1252 (14-31): Jul 1,16, 21,28,29, Aug 3,10,11(x2), 16,21, Sep 11,19,20 BUCKIE ON1268 (17-37): Jul 8,9,14, 15,16,22,28, Aug 19,21,31, Sep 17,24 BUDE D-756: Jul 28, Aug 21, Sep 4,5 RWC-129: Jul 28, Aug 21, Sep 4,5 BUNDORAN B-834: Jul 9, Aug 5,6,20,27, Sep 1(x2),4,9 BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH B-849: Jul 7,9,15,26,29, Aug 12,13,21, Sep 7,14,30 D-807: Jul 7, Sep 10,23 BURNHAM-ON-SEA B-914: Jul 30, Aug 11,17 D-801: Jul 15,30, Sep 30 BURRY PORT B-915: Jul 7,11,15,17,19, Aug 2,6,27, Sep 1(x2),5 D-749: Jul 2,5,7,17(x2),19, Aug 2,5,9,14,20,21,22,28,31, Sep 2(x2) CALSHOT B-860: Jul 1,3,8,16,23, Sep 2,14,17,25 D-748: Jul 5,8,13 D-880: Sep 2,16 CAMPBELTOWN D-870: Jul 10,17,29, Sep 30 ON1241 (17-19): Jul 29, Aug 12(x2), Sep 15 CARDIGAN B-871: Jul 9(x2),13(x2),14, 29, Aug 20,21, Sep 1,8 D-845: Aug 25,26, Sep 20 CARRYBRIDGE B-883: Jul 10,11(x2) B-904: Jul 29, Aug 2,27, Sep 14 CASTLETOWNBERE ON1277 (17-44): Jul 5,8,23, 29, Aug 19

KNOW YOUR CRAFT Use this key to identify the lifeboat/craft in action SHANNON CLASS

ON####(13-##) introduced 2014 new cost: £2,450,000/ €2,762,865

TAMAR CLASS

ON####(16-##) last built:2013

TRENT CLASS

SEVERN CLASS

ON####(17-##)

ON####(14-##)

last built: 2004

last built: 2004

MERSEY CLASS

INSHORE RESCUE HOVERCRAFT

ON####(12-##)

H-###

last built: 1993

last built 2008

E CLASS

D CLASS

E-###

D-###

last built 2019

new cost: £100,000/€112,770

B CLASS

INSHORE RESCUE BOAT

B-###

A-###

new cost: £304,000/€342,821

new cost: £13,000/€14,660

RESCUE WATERCRAFT

ADDITIONAL RESCUE CRAFT:

RWC-###

BB-### Y-### X-### XP-###

Boarding boat Y boat X boat XP boat

new cost: £10,000/€11,277 Costs quoted are what it costs to build the lifeboat, deliver it, and make it ready for service.

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 33

CHISWICK E-08: Jul 1,6(x2),7,8(x2), 9(x2),10,11,13(x2),18(x2), 19(x2),20(x2), Aug 15(x2), 16,18(x3),19,21(x2),22, 23(x2),24,25(x2), 26(x2), 29,30(x2), Sep 1(x2),2,3,5, 7(x2),11,13,14(x2),16, 17(x4),19,20,21,22,23, 25, 29 E-09: Jul 2,3(x2),22,23(x2), 25(x3),26,29(x2),30,31, Aug 1(x2),3(x2),10,11, Sep 9,28(x2) CLACTON-ON-SEA B-863: Jul 22, Aug 3,9, 12,13,24,31, Sep 6,22 D-849: Jul 8,20,21(x2),22, 28, Aug 6(x2),15,21 CLEETHORPES D-757: Jul 2,3,15,16(x2), 17(x2),18,22,26, Aug 2,4, 11,16,20,26,29(x2),31, Sep 3(x2),4(x3),5,8,10,13,15 CLIFDEN B-869: Aug 5 ON1350 (13-43): Sep 9,27 CLOGHERHEAD ON1338 (13-31): Jul 1, Aug 5 CLOVELLY B-872: Jul 22, Aug 17,28, Sep 15,24(x2) CONWY D-765: Jul 29, Aug 2,10, 26, Sep 2,3,5,7,8,9(x2), 22,28 COURTMACSHERRY HARBOUR ON1352 (13-45): Jul 7,8, 17, Sep 9 COURTOWN D-846: Jul 4,17, Aug 9, Sep 1 COWES B-859: Jul 1(x2),2,3,19,20, 29,31(x3), Aug 1(x2),9(x2), 17,18(x2),20, Sep 2,7,10, 15(x2) CRASTER D-839: Jul 6 CRICCIETH A-76: Jul 4, 14, Aug 24 B-823: Jul 4 B-938: Aug 4,17(x2),24,30, Sep 8,28 CROMER D-868: Jul 8,16, Aug 19, Sep 11 ON1287 (16-07): Jul 8,9,26 CROSSHAVEN B-892: Jul 8,24,29,31, Aug 1,5,9,24, Sep 2(x2),5

D

E

CULLERCOATS B-935: Jul 1,12,21,27,30, Aug 6, Sep 3,22,25 DART B-931: Jul 1,4,9,10,17, Aug 12,13,23,25(x2), 26(x2),28,30, Sep 10,14,25 D-838: Jul 4, Aug 23,28, Sep 3 DONAGHADEE ON1225 (14-21): Aug 4,20, 25,29, Sep 10,11,12 DOUGLAS ON1191 (12-32): Aug 16 DOVER ON1220 (17-09): Jul 7,18, 19(x2),22,29, Aug 5,9(x2), 10,12(x3),16,19,20,21(x2), 23,25,27,29(x2),31, Sep 2, 4,9(x2),11,26(x2),30(x3) DUN LAOGHAIRE D-865: Jul 1,5, Aug 7,11, 12(x2),14,15,20,22(x2),23, 28, Sep 2,4 ON1215 (14-17): Jul 9,17, 18,29,30, Aug 9,12,13,20 DUNBAR D-816: Sep 3,4 D-844: Jul 28 ON1266 (14-35): Sep 3 DUNGENESS ON1309 (13-02): Jul 27, Aug 10(x2),11,19,21,23,24, Sep 2,14 DUNMORE EAST ON1348 (13-41): Jul 5,10, 29, Aug 17(x2),19, Sep 2,3,12 EASTBOURNE D-744: Jul 5 D-776: Jul 8(x2),9,12,16, 18,29, Aug 1(x2),3,6,10,17, 20(x2), Sep 2,4(x2),7(x2), 14,16,23(x2) ON1213 (14-15): Aug 20,26,28(x2), Sep 4,7,18(x3),19 ON1303 (16-23): Jul 12, 24, Aug 1(x2),5,7 ENNISKILLEN B-912: Jul 1,3,29, Aug 9, Sep 8 EXMOUTH D-805: Jul 1,2,6,8,10,16, 23(x2), Aug 9,13,17,18,19, 21,28, Sep 2,9,17,18(x3), 29(x2),30(x2) ON1310 (13-03): Jul 2(x2), 13,23, Aug 6,13,18,28, Sep 4,16,17,18(x2) EYEMOUTH D-877: Jul 24, Aug 26(x2), Sep 10 ON1336 (13-29): Aug 26(x2),29, Sep 2,5, 16, 26

34 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

F

G

H

FALMOUTH B-916: Jul 1,4,5(x2),7(x2), 10,15,23, Aug 3(x2),5,7,8, 9(x3),13,14,16,18,19,28(x2), 30(x2), Sep 2,4,19,23(x2),27 ON1256 (17-29): Jul 3,7, 10,18,23, Aug 9,11,14,18, 23, Sep 10 FENIT D-860: Aug 17 ON1239 (14-27): Jul 13, 27, Aug 17 FETHARD D-819: Aug 8,9,17,29, Sep 9 FILEY B-928: Jul 6,12, Aug 19, 21(x2), Sep 12,25 D-859: Jul 13, Aug 19,21, 28, Sep 1,10,17(x2),25 FISHGUARD D-789: Jul 31, Aug 3,20, Sep 18 ON1198 (14-03): Jul 14, Aug 3,17,18, Sep 18 FLAMBOROUGH B-820: Jul 2(x3),17, Aug 11, 25,28, Sep 3,8,10 FLEETWOOD D-853: Jul 31, Aug 3,5,7, 12(x2),19, Sep 16 ON1321 (13-14): Jul 18, Aug 3,7,13,17, Sep 23 FLINT D-857: Aug 13,30(x2) FOWEY D-817: Jul 3,13,17,25, Aug 19,20,23, Sep 6,12,23 ON1222 (14-18): Jul 1(x2), 3,13,25, Aug 19(x2),20, Sep 8,9,11,12,23 FRASERBURGH ON1204 (14-06): Aug 6 ON1259 (14-34): Aug 20, Sep 21,24 GALWAY B-853: Jul 21, Aug 1,9(x2), 12, Sep 14(x2) GIRVAN ON1330 (13-23): Jul 1,20, Aug 12, Sep 9 GRAVESEND B-827: Jul 1,2(x2),3,4,7, 11(x2),17,18(x2),19,24,26, 28, Aug 3,5,6,9,23,25,31, Sep 2,7(x3),10(x2),11(x2), 19,28,29(x2) GREAT YARMOUTH AND GORLESTON B-925: Jul 4,8,10,22, Aug 9, 11,12,15,22(x2), Sep 8,9,17 ON1208 (14-10): Jul 4 HAPPISBURGH D-813: Jul 26, Aug 1

HARTLEPOOL B-881: Jul 5,28,30(x2), Aug 5,8,19,21,25,28,29, 30,31(x2), Sep 3(x2),9,24 ON1274 (14-37): Jul 1, Aug 19 HARWICH B-907: Jul 2(x2),3,4,8(x2), 11,15,16,19,21,23,27(x2),2 8,30(x2), Aug 7,12(x2),20, Sep 1,2,3,4,9,24,27,30(x3) ON1278 (17-45): Aug 5, 12,20, Sep 2,24 HASTINGS D-835: Jul 10,23, Aug 19, 24, Sep 6,18,25 ON1335 (13-28): Jul 8,13, Aug 21,23 HAYLING ISLAND B-829: Jul 3,4,12,19, 20(x3), Aug 10,16,22, 23(x2),30, Sep 4,5(x2),8, 9(x2),10(x2),11 D-779: Jul 1,3,4,10,12,19, Aug 6,10,22, Sep 4,5,9,10, 11(x2),16(x2) HELENSBURGH B-903: Jul 3,20,23(x2), 30(x2), Aug 1,3(x3),13, 18(x2),25(x3), Sep 2,5,7, 17,29 HELVICK HEAD B-874: Jul 11, Aug 25, 28,30 HOLYHEAD D-791: Jul 2,11,21, Aug 4, 17,27, Sep 1,8 ON1272 (17-41): Jul 16, Aug 10,13,16,17, Sep 1(x2),2 HORTON AND PORT EYNON D-824: Jul 1(x2),2,20, Aug 15,23,26,27(x2), Sep 4,16 HOWTH D-796: Jul 2,3,27, Aug 13, 29, Sep 1,2,3(x3) ON1258 (14-33): Jul 26, Aug 14,15,29, Sep 3(x2) HOYLAKE H-005: Jul 4,24, Aug 16, 22(x2), Sep 3,4,5,6 ON1313 (13-06): Jul 27 HUMBER ON1260 (17-31): Jul 9(x2), 18,29, Aug 1,20,29, Sep 10,12,13,17 HUNSTANTON B-848: Jul 18,26, Sep 1, 10,16 H-003: Aug 19, Sep 1,3, 7,16

I

ILFRACOMBE D-863: Jul 1,5,6, Aug 3,4, 19,30, Sep 4,15,30 ON1316 (13-09): Jul 1,6, 29, Sep 8,18 INVERGORDON ON1344 (13-37): Jul 8,22, Sep 15,29 ISLAY ON1237 (17-17): Jul 3,6, 8,9,12,23, Aug 1,14,25 K KESSOCK B-873: Jul 8,9,12,14,23, Aug 6,7,12,13, 15,17, 27(x2), Sep 5,6(x2) KILKEEL B-812: Aug 31 KILMORE QUAY ON1298 (16-18): Jul 5,13, Aug 12,24, Sep 11(x2) KINGHORN B-836: Jul 4,8(x3),9,16, 22(x2),23(x2),24, Aug 3(x2),4,5(x2),6,12,19, 22,25,26,28, Sep 2,3,4(x2), 5,7 KINSALE B-909: Jul 4,7,15,16,28, Aug 5,12,16,20, Sep 4(x3) KIPPFORD D-854: Jul 26, Aug 17, Sep 25 KIRKCUDBRIGHT B-814: Jul 26, Aug 6,19, 20,29,31 KIRKWALL ON1231 (17-13): Jul 2(x2), 12,13,16(x2), Aug 8,20,30 KYLE OF LOCHALSH B-856: Jul 1,28,30, Aug 19, 21, Sep 11 LARGS B-854: Jul 3,10,19,23, Aug 3,6(x2),17,19,21, Sep 5(x2),9,17,21,25 L LARNE D-783: Jul 7, Aug 17, Sep 6(x2),8,21 ON1246 (14-30): Jul 7,27, Aug 10,17,21, Sep 2,9 LERWICK ON1221 (17-10): Aug 2,3, Sep 18,19 LEVERBURGH B-870: Jul 9,29, Aug 14,25, 28, Sep 5 LITTLE AND BROAD HAVEN D-766: Jul 8, Sep 23 D-809: Jul 29, Aug 10,18, 26,31, Sep 4

LAUNCHES MALLAIG LITTLEHAMPTON ON1250 (17-26): Jul 6, B-891: Jul 7,8(x2),13,18,23, 28,29, Aug 6,15,30, Sep 2, 7(x2),8,20,30,31, Aug 1,2,6, 5,16,30 21,22,25,26,29,30, Sep 4,6, O D-769: Jul 8, Aug 30, 8,10,21,24 Sep 2,5,14 MARGATE D-792: Jul 29, Aug 15(x2) B-930: Jul 20,30,31, LITTLESTONE-ON-SEA Aug 10, 24(x2),26(x2),28,29 P B-922: Jul 8, Aug 3,10(x4), D-841: Jul 2,16,30,31, 11,21(x2),30, Sep 3,11 Aug 10,24(x2),27,28, LLANDUDNO Sep 3,4(x2),5,6,7,10,28 D-793: Jul 1,18,28, Aug 8, MINEHEAD Sep 20 B-939: Sep 29 ON1325 (13-18): Jul 1,20, D-847: Sep 16,29(x2) Aug 29, Sep 4 MOELFRE LOCH NESS D-825: Jul 19,23,28, 29(x3), B-902: Jul 14,23,27,31, Aug 1,4,6,9,10,13,16,21(x2), Sep 6,24 23, Sep 6,17 LOCHINVER ON1305 (16-25): ON1271 (17-40): Jul 1,26, Jul 8,23,29,30, Aug 7,14, 27, Aug 19, Sep 18 20,29,31, Sep 9 LONGHOPE MONTROSE ON1284 (16-05): Aug 16, D-764: Jul 22, Aug 14, Sep 28,29 Sep 13 LOOE D-816: Sep 30 B-894: Jul 23, Sep 8, ON1317 (13-10): Aug 3,10, 10(x2), 25 17,19, Sep 30 D-872: Jul 5,9,29(x2), MORECAMBE Sep 8,10,25 D-855: Jul 4,8,9, Aug 1,8, LOUGH DERG 11,26, Sep 2(x2),8 B-911: Jul 1, Aug 6,10, H-002: Jul 21,26, Aug 1,8, 14 20 27(x2),28, Sep 4,5 LOUGH REE H-007: Jul 8 B-920: Jul 2,5,8,12,19, MUDEFORD 29(x2),31, Aug 6,10,25, B-806: Jul 1(x3),3(x2),16,20, Sep 4,8,14,15,16,24 29, Aug 3,4,11,16(x2),17, LOUGH SWILLY 19,20(x2),25,28(x2),31(x2), B-819: Jul 28, Sep 3,24 Sep 3,4(x2),5,6,16,17,18,26 N NEW BRIGHTON ON1315 (13-08): Aug 4, Sep 11,13,24 B-837: Jul 5,16,29, Aug 5, LOWESTOFT 11,15(x2),17,22(x2), Sep 4, ON1312 (13-05): Jul 10, 5(x4),9,17,25 16, 31, Aug 13,15,25,30, NEW QUAY (CEREDIGION) Sep 5,20,21 D-754: Jul 1, Aug 17, LYME REGIS Sep 2,3 B-857: Jul 1,5,14, Aug 1, ON1172 (12-15): Jul 13, 13,15,25,29, Sep 2,4,6(x2), Aug 17(x2), Sep 3,11 19,25,29,30 NEWCASTLE LYMINGTON D-738: Sep 28 B-882: Jul 1,3,6,13(x3),16, D-775: Jul 12 17,30, Aug 28, Sep 4,6 D-836: Aug 24 LYTHAM ST ANNES ON1168 (12-010): Jul 13,26 D-800: Jul 9,10, Aug 14,16, ON1177 (12-20): Aug 18, 17(x2),18, Sep 9 24,31 ON1331 (13-24): Jul 22, NEWHAVEN Aug 17(x2), Sep 9,20 ON1243 (17-21): Jul 12,13, M MABLETHORPE 18,20,29(x2), Aug 23,26,27, B-887: Jul 10,30, Sep 17 Sep 4(x2),5,6,9,16,17,18,24 D-790: Jul 2,25, Aug 11,13, NEWQUAY (CORNWALL) 15,20,22 B-936: Jul 1,15,16(x2),19, MACDUFF 24,28,29, Aug 2,17(x4),19, B-933: Jul 8,15(x2),26, 22,24, Sep 1,2,12 Aug 19, Sep 4,5,16,21,22, D-773: Jul 16(x2),19,24,28, 24(x2) 29, Aug 7,17,24, Sep 2,24

NORTH BERWICK D-758: Jul 2,3,6,7,8,9,11, 17, Aug 8,20(x2), Sep 3 OBAN ON1227 (14-23): Jul 6,8, 9,15(x2),19,22,26, Aug 1,3, 7,8,10(x4),15,17,18(x2), 25,27, Sep 6(x2),12, 20,30 PADSTOW ON1283 (16-04): Jul 4,6, 12,29, Aug 4(x2),19,21 PEEL ON1342 (13-35): Jul 17,19, Aug 20 PENARTH B-839: Jul 9(x2),18,26,29, Aug 4 B-926: Aug 16,21, Sep 5, 12,15,19 D-822: Aug 3,26, Sep 1, 13,15 PENLEE B-893: Aug 4,13,17,18, 19(x2),26, Sep 4,27 ON1265 (17-36): Jul 10, Aug 8,13,18,19(x2),26, Sep 26,27 PETERHEAD ON1280 (16-01): Sep 2, 18,24 ON1282 (16-03): Jul 1,8, 13,17, Aug 6(x2) PLYMOUTH B-908: Jul 5,31, Aug 4, 6(x3),12,21,22,24(x2),27, 28(x2),31, Sep 1,2(x2), 3(x3),4,10 B-921: Jul 1,18(x2),27,30, Aug 2,9 ON1264 (17-35): Jul 7, 15(x2),19,21, Aug 13, Sep 10 POOLE B-826: Jul 3(x2),16,22,29, 31, Aug 1,4(x3),8,9,10, 11(x2),12,13,17(x2),18,21, 28(x2),31, Sep 2(x2),3,4,7, 10,19 D-804: Jul 3,10,29,31, Aug 8,13(x3),15,18,23, Sep 1(x2),2(x2) PORT ISAAC D-843: Jul 12, Sep 3,16(x2) PORT ST MARY D-873: Jul 11,28 ON1234 (14-26): Jul 11,17 PORT TALBOT D-848: Aug 3,10,11,16,17, 29, Sep 6,12 PORTAFERRY B-833: Jul 8, Aug 3,18, Sep 3,14 PORTHCAWL B-832: Jul 2,5,17,25, Aug 10,26

Q

R

PORTHDINLLAEN ON1304 (16-24): Jul 14, 16,28, Aug 1,4(x2),11,19, 23,28,29, Sep 4,8 PORTISHEAD B-884: Jul 1,14,17,26, Aug 6,9,20, Sep 2,8,13,17 PORTPATRICK ON1301 (16-21): Jul 12, 25(x2),27,28,30, Aug 7,13, 16, Sep 2,4 PORTREE ON1204 (14-06): Aug 27, 29, Sep 1,10 ON1214 (14-16): Jul 1,3, 11,16, Aug 1,19, Sep 14,16 PORTRUSH D-871: Jul 3, Sep 3 ON1257 (17-30): Jul 8, Sep 3,16 PORTSMOUTH B-846: Jul 1(x3),9,21,29, Aug 9,12,18, Sep 4,5(x2), 6,11,15,22 D-792: Jul 9 D-850: Aug 9,12,27(x2), Sep 5,6,22,25 QUEENSFERRY B-851: Jul 5,7,8,9(x2),21, 23,24(x2), Aug 4,5,15,16, 20,22(x2), 25,27,30, Sep 3, 4(x2),5,8,9(x2), 14,16,26,30 RAMSEY ON1349 (13-42): Jul 21, Sep 18,30 RAMSGATE B-878: Jul 6,7,9(x2),11(x2), 19 ON1197 (14-02): Jul 9,19 RED BAY B-840: Jul 8,26, Aug 4 B-843: Aug 14, Sep 3,10 ON1253 (14-32): Jul 8, Aug 14 REDCAR B-850: Jul 26,29, Aug 16, 17,21, Sep 10,22,29 B-858: Jul 1,12 D-786: Jul 6,13,26, Aug 17,28 D-809: Jul 1 RHYL D-770: Jul 17,31, Aug 1(x2), 9,16,17,20,21,30, Sep 3, 4(x2),7,8(x2),9,23,24 ON1341 (13-34): Jul 27,31, Aug 20,29, Sep 8(x2) ROCK D-772: Jul 4,5,9,14,27, Aug 2,4,9, Sep 12 ROSSLARE HARBOUR ON1276 (17-43): Jul 1,13, Aug 13, Sep 23,24 RYE HARBOUR B-900: Jul 8(x2),13,14, Aug 7,25, Sep 3,10

S

SALCOMBE B-905: Jul 16,29(x3), Aug 4,15,17, Sep 7 ON1289 (16-09): Jul 1,9, 16, 20, Aug 17,20,21, Sep 10 SCARBOROUGH D-856: Jul 9,18, Aug 12, 19,24, Sep 3,10,11,12,13,30 SEAHOUSES D-828: Aug 1,14,15,16, Sep 30 SELSEY D-827: Jul 11, Aug 7,11, 13,16,18,26, Sep 2,3,5,12, 15,16,26 ON1327 (13-20): Jul 10, 29,30, Aug 7,18,29, Sep 4, 5,7,14 SENNEN COVE D-763: Jul 11,12,14, Aug 16,22, Sep 14(x2) ON1294 (16-14): Jul 1,9, 10,12,14,17, Aug 3,4,16,22, Sep 2,11,14,26 SHEERNESS D-799: Aug 15,17,19,25,31, Sep 2 D-815: Sep 13,15(x2) D-826: Jul 2,3,5(x2),6, 9(x2),11(x2),15,20(x2), Aug 5(x2) ON1345 (13-38): Jul 9,15, 16,21,22, Aug 7,10,11,12, Sep 16 SHERINGHAM B-818: Aug 1 SHOREHAM HARBOUR D-784: Jul 1,10(x2),11,14, 19,20,23, Aug 21,27(x2), Sep 3(x2),4 D-809: Sep 10,30 ON1295 (16-15): Jul 1,8, 13,19, Aug 23(x2), Sep 4,5, 10,24 SILLOTH B-828: Sep 9,13 B-880: Jul 24 B-918: Jul 7 SKEGNESS D-826: Aug 22,28, Sep 3,7, 14,18,22 D-842: Aug 10(x2) D-875: Jul 1,2,23,29(x2) ON1311 (13-04): Sep 18 ON1324 (13-17): Aug 6,12 SKERRIES B-866: Jul 23, Aug 2,3,4, 11(x2), Sep 4,23 SLIGO BAY B-888: Jul 3, Aug 13,17,18, 19,20,24, Sep 2,10,16,17,28

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 35

SOUTHEND-ON-SEA B-885: Jul 2,7,14,22(x2), 24,30, Aug 17,19, Sep 2,10 D-771: Jul 30, Aug 26(x2), Sep 17 D-818: Jul 5,7,8,30(x2), Aug 1,10(x3),16,17,19,23, Sep 5 H-006: Jul 12,19,30, Aug 9,13,17,21,26,27,30, Sep 5,25 SOUTHWOLD B-868: Jul 8, Aug 23, Sep 15,16,20,21 T ST AGNES D-746: Aug 12(x2),15,22 D-787: Jul 9 ST BEES B-831: Jul 6(x2),14,27,28 ST CATHERINE B-816: Jul 12 B-841: Jul 17, Aug 31 ST DAVIDS D-840: Aug 24 ON1306 (16-26): Jul 8,10,13,29, Aug 3,8,10, 25,26, Sep 1,23 ST HELIER B-934: Jul 1, Aug 9,13 ON1292 (16-12): Jul 16,22, Aug 13 ST IVES D-803: Jul 10,24,26,30, Aug 13(x2),17, Sep 3(x2), 14,25(x2) ON1318 (13-11): Jul 24, 26,28,30, Aug 2,10,13,15, 17,22, Sep 3(x3) ST MARY’S BB-065: Jul 6 ON1229 (17-11): Sep 26 ON1254 (17-27): Jul 5,9, 10(x2),14,17,31, Aug 5, 18(x2),20,22, Sep 1 ST PETER PORT B-889: Jul 6,8,25(x2), Aug 3,7, Sep 1,4 ON1203 (17-04): Jul 10(x2), 23(x2),25, Aug 10(x2),15,28, Sep 1,9,23,27 STAITHES AND RUNSWICK B-897: Aug 15,23, Sep 30 STONEHAVEN B-919: Aug 20, Sep 4,15,22 STORNOWAY ON1238 (17-18): Jul 22,26, Sep 5,12 STRANRAER D-833: Jul 1,9,26,30, Aug 7,20, Sep 15 STROMNESS ON1236 (17-16): Aug 8,14, Sep 3

SUNDERLAND B-817: Jul 1(x2),3, Aug 13, 27, Sep 21,30 D-816: Jul 4 D-879: Jul 13, Aug 13,27, Sep 1,4(x2),16,19,21 SWANAGE D-752: Jul 1,2,3,4,13,22,25, Aug 4,7,9,20,22,27 ON1319 (13-12): Jul 3, 4(x2),10,18,20,22(x3) ON1320 (13-13): Aug 4,6,7, 9,13,17, 20,25,26,28(x2), Sep 17,19 TEDDINGTON D-785: Jul 1, Aug 8, Sep 4,17,20,22 D-874: Jul 14,24,25,26,28, Aug 1,8,10,11,17, Sep 8,10, 13,17,20 TEIGNMOUTH A-67: Jul 2 B-809: Jul 2(x2),12,14,27, Aug 3,12,18, Sep 4,5(x2), 18,28 TENBY D-812: Jul 1,23,25,29, Aug 15(x2), Sep 1,8,9,11 D-858: Jul 4(x2),7,8 ON1281 (16-02): Jul 9,11, 12,16,20(x2),21,25,29 ON1293 (16-13): Aug 6, 10(x2),11,21,28, Sep 1,4,7, 8,9,22 THE LIZARD ON1300 (16-20): Jul 9,18, 23,26, Aug 3,20, Sep 24,30 THE MUMBLES D-761: Jul 4(x2),8,12,16, 21(x2),25,29, Aug 7(x2),10, U 13,14,27(x2), Sep 2,3,17, 25,30 V ON1307 (16-27): Jul 5,21, Aug 7,12,18,19,27, Sep 7, W 16,21,30 THE RNLI COLLEGE ON1290 (16-10): Aug 18 THURSO ON1273 (17-42): Aug 2,8, 24, Sep 13,20 TIGHNABRUAICH B-862: Jul 10,22(x2),26, Aug 11,29 TOBERMORY ON1270 (17-39): Jul 1,7, 8,12(x2),18,25, Aug 1,2(x2), 3,6,10, Sep 4,17 TORBAY D-746: Jul 25,30 D-788: Jul 4,8,9,25, Aug 8, 10(x2),11(x3),16(x2),17,18, 29,30, Sep 11,16,17 ON1255 (17-28): Jul 7,14, Aug 11,18,28(x2),30, Sep 23

36 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

TOWER E-07: Aug 1(x6),3(x2),4, 5(x2),6,7(x3),8(x2),9(x5), 10(x3),11(x4),12(x2),13,14, 15(x2) E-09: Aug 16(x3),18(x2), 19(x4),20,21(x2),22(x2) E-10: Jul 1(x6),2(x2), 3(x2),4(x2),5,6(x2),7(x4), 8,9(x4),10(x4),11(x5),12(x2), 13(x2),14(x3),15(x2),16, 17(x5),18,19(x4),20(x3), 21(x2),22,23(x2),24(x5), 25(x3),26(x4),27(x2),28(x3), 29(x6),30(x4),31(x2), Aug 4, 24,25,26(x2),27(x3),28,29, 31(x3), Sep 1,3(x3),4(x5),7, 8(x2),10(x2),12,13(x4), 14(x2),15,16(x3),17(x2), 18(x2),19,21(x4),23,24(x5), 25,26(x3),27(x3),29(x2), 30(x3) TRAMORE D-781: Jul 9, Aug 11,30 TREARDDUR BAY B-847: Jul 29(x2),30(x3), Aug 2,5,13(x2),17,20,23,27, Sep 9,16,30 D-753: Jul 20,29,30(x3), Aug 2,20,23,3, Sep 2,9 TROON D-821: Jul 15,22,23, Aug 8, 17(x2), Sep 4,5,9(x3),10 ON1275 (14-38): Jul 1,22, 23,31, Aug 17(x2), Sep 4,5, 9,10,21 TYNEMOUTH D-829: Aug 22, Sep 11,17 ON1263 (17-34): Sep 11, 22,24 UNION HALL B-924: Aug 9,18 VALENTIA ON1279 (17-46): Jul 24 WALMER B-808: Jul 6,22, Aug 11, 12(x4), Sep 4,11,19 D-794: Jul 10,14,18, Aug 14,16,19, Sep 19 WALTON AND FRINTON ON1299 (16-19): Jul 31, Aug 2 WELLS D-797: Aug 15,19,20,22, Sep 7,14,29 ON1353 (13-46): Aug 7,13 WEST KIRBY D-751: Jul 17, Aug 13,17, Sep 3,4,5 WEST MERSEA B-879: Jul 1,5,7,14,19, Aug 5,7,12,16,17,19,22,23, 28,29(x2), Sep 1(x2),3(x2), 6,7,8,9,10(x2),16,29,30

WESTON-SUPER-MARE B-830: Jul 7,27, Aug 25, Sep 25,26 D-832: Jul 7,16,19,27, Aug 16,25, Sep 10(x2),11, 25,26 WEXFORD D-782: Jul 9,15,23,25,27, Aug 13(x2),21,22,23 WEYMOUTH B-917: Jul 1,5,18,29, Aug 3, 9,12,13, Sep 3,4,6,7, 9,11, 13,15,16,17,27 ON1261 (17-32): Jul 1,2, 22(x2), Aug 12,13,21,28, Sep 4,5,6,9(x2),16(x2) WHITBY D-810: Jul 1, Aug 22, Sep 3(x2),16,23 D-816: Jul 20,22,23, Aug 3, 12,13 ON1212 (14-14): Jul 1, Aug 3,12(x2),13,22 ON1356 (13-49): Sep 16 WHITSTABLE B-877: Jul 9,14,16(x2),22, 23,25,29, Aug 2,10(x2),11, 13,20,24,28, Sep 1,5,15

Y

WICK ON1224 (14-20): Jul 2,18 WICKLOW D-806: Jul 14, Aug 7,16,19, Sep 3,5,30 ON1334 (13-27): Jul 14,23, Sep 14,24 ON1339 (13-32): Jul 5, Aug 6 WITHERNSEA D-837: Jul 8,17, Aug 11,25, 27, Sep 4,15 WORKINGTON D-767: Jul 28, Aug 16 ON1326 (13-19): Jul 6,14, 28, Aug 16,17,18, Sep 12, 13,20 YARMOUTH (IOW) ON1249 (17-25): Jul 3,4,6, 13(x2),20(x2),22(x6), Aug 3, 10,15,19,21,25,31, Sep 2,18 YOUGHAL B-890: Jul 2(x2),7,14,16,20, Aug 4,5(x3),16,20,31

Photo: RNLI/John Horton

Courtmacsherry Harbour Shannon class lifeboat Val Adnams

ON STATION ON1355 (13-48), Roy Barker V, New Quay, 15 September 2023 B-939, Penny J II, Minehead, 21 September 2023

NAMING CEREMONIES B-912, John and Jean Lewis, Enniskillen, 1 July 2023 D-866, Raymond and Dorothy Billingham, Barrow, 15 July 2023 D-848, Craig Morris, Port Talbot, 6 August 2023 D-874, Alderman Penny Shelton, Teddington, 2 September 2023 ON1352 (13-45), Val Adnams, Courtmacsherry Harbour, 9 September 2023 D-877, Sheila, Eyemouth, 16 September 2023 B-930, Colonel Stock, Margate, 23 September 2023

Friends of the RNLI

Dolphins, whales and lifeboats – all things you might spot on your next Fred. Olsen cruise!

Imagine relaxing on the deck of a Fred. Olsen cruise ship by the Isle of Skye. Out of the corner of your eye you spot the Kyle of Lochalsh lifeboat and crew, out training.

In June this year, that’s exactly what happened to the lucky passengers of Fred. Olsen’s cruise ship Balmoral.

It was extra special as Fred. Olsen guests funded that particular lifeboat Spirit of Fred. Olsen, which went on service in 2011.

As one of the RNLI’s longest-standing corporate partners with a history that spans more than 60 years, Fred. Olsen has taken part in lots of fundraising activities for the charity. With the help of their guests, Fred. Olsen has funded five lifeboats, three mobile training units, three seminar rooms at RNLI College in Poole, three lifeboat-launching trolleys, plus training and equipment for the volunteer crew.

Photo: RNLI/Kyle of Lochalsh

Puzzle time RNLI SPY

Quick wordsearch Not long now! How will you mark the RNLI’s 200th anniversary? You’re invited to join in any of the special activities and events below – just a flavour of what’s going on in 2024. Find out more at RNLI.org/200.

G T V Y T O N E Q O R S

N U A N S C I R K G O N

I A E U A A P X O N M O

G Y F F C L P A H I D I

N J E Y D E O W B L N T

I O S L O V H H L I A I

S V T I P E S F R A S B

B Z I M R N F M F S K I

I R V A Y T L Y U V I H

Q Y A F B S Y Z C D S X

D Z L G A M I N G H U E

EXHIBITIONS FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL GAMING LOCAL EVENTS PODCASTS SAILING SHOPPING SINGING AND MORE

Can you work out what class of lifeboat this is?

Answer on page 40.

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 37

Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard

C L R D S L G Y G U E S

Special delivery Your letters, posts and pictures

Launch a Memory

Photo of the season A calm mid-winter’s day for a training exercise by Beaumaris B class lifeboat crew.

Thanks to Damian O'Brien for sending it in.

Photo: Jack

Moya and family visited Wells Lifeboat Station to remember husband, dad and grandad Dave

It was recently the 3rd anniversary of my husband’s death, so my sons and two grandsons visited the lifeboat station at Wells to see my husband Dave’s name on the new lifeboat. We were very excited to learn that only the day before the boat had been named as the Duke of Edinburgh and launched by the Duke of Kent.

It has brought me so much joy to know that my husband’s name will be around for decades. One happy bunny thanks to you.

MOYA WARNER

Editor: We’re so pleased you were able to visit with your family, Moya. If any other supporters like the idea of putting a loved one’s name on the side of a lifeboat, see the back page for info about a new opportunity.

Flying high Afraid of heights? This is fearless Brenda Stobbart wingwalking on an old biplane, raising funds for the RNLI and a hospital breast cancer unit. Thank you so much Brenda and thank you Jim Scott who sent us the photo.

Photo: Wingwalk Buzz

38 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

SPECIAL DELIVERY

Write to us

Email the editor at lifeboat@rnli.org.uk

Were you moved by a rescue story? Do you want to know more about something you've read?

We love hearing from you and seeing your photos. Please get in touch with us.

Share your stories at twitter.com/RNLI Connect with us on facebook.com/RNLI

Thank you for saving me

Blooming lovely Our family visited the RNLI station in Whitstable, Kent, and enjoyed a very pleasant experience. My husband is a contributor to your charity and whilst browsing in your shop decided to purchase two sets of your ceramic RNLI wellies, one for ourselves and one for our daughter Nancy.

While on holiday in South America, I spotted two of our ‘old’ lifeboats in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay.

They were instantly recognisable in their original livery and one of them looked ready to launch.

The security man on the pier was very proud of them and was delighted to see I was wearing my RNLI cap. I was treated like a VIP. I was wondering about the logistics of re-locating them to almost the other end of the world.

It’s great to think that they’re still saving lives at sea.

GRAEME BELL OBE

Editor: Thanks Graeme. In answer to your query about the logistics of transporting former lifeboats across the world, the RNLI Assets Sales Manager told me that the arrangement is down to the buyer.

The ones you spotted belong to an organisation called ADES in Uruguay. They have had a few boats through the years.

Essentially they are lifted onto a shipping liner as deck cargo, strapped down and taken to the port of Montevideo.

In South America, Graeme spotted the former RNLI lifeboat Grace Darling (ON1173) from Seahouses, sold in 2021

‘Our family visited the RNLI station in Whitstable, and enjoyed a very pleasant experience’ We have planted flowers and, as you can see, they really look the part in our garden.

This is a constant reminder of the excellent work the RNLI do. Many thanks for your sterling service.

MARK AND TRACEY WILSON

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 39

Remember the YLA? I thought you and your readers might be interested in this photo. My father and my family were one of the original members when the YLA started [the Yachtsman’s Life-boat Supporters’ Association] in 1969. It was the precursor of what now is the Shoreline, Offshore and of course Governor membership schemes.

When my dad Kenneth Geach died, I carried on with Shoreline as it became, and then upgraded to Offshore when I bought a larger boat. These days I sail with others and continue to support the RNLI. WENDY GEACH

Editor: Thank you so much Wendy for you and your family’s tremendously loyal support with your RNLI membership.

Puzzle solutions (page 37): IT’S A TRENT CLASS LIFEBOAT, NAMED ANNA LIVIA 14-05, FROM DUN LAOGHAIRE.

LIFEBOAT LOTTERY 50 CASH PRIZES TO BE WON THIS WINTER

SCAN ME

‘It was so unexpected to win the RNLI lottery, I couldn’t believe it. Thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who launch out to sea in all weathers to save the lives of others’ MRS LEWIS, WINTER LOTTERY WINNER

Enter the winter Lottery from 8 January to 29 February 2024 Call 0300 300 9920 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm).

The draw date is 18 March 2024. Every £1 ticket you buy powers our lifesaving. Find out more at RNLI.org/LotteryLB

For a full list of winners of the summer Lottery, visit RNLI.org/LotteryWinners Please note that due to tax and gaming laws, to play the Lifeboat Lottery you must be a resident of England (excluding the Channel Islands and Isle of Man), Scotland or Wales. Entrants must be aged 18 or over. For full details, including terms and conditions, visit RNLI.org/LotteryLB

40 Lifeboat winter 2022–23

Photo: Stephen Duncombe

Photo: PinPep

2023: The RNLI and Kärcher hold the first ever Float Spa session at Bude Sea Pool to educate peop le on how to float ahead of the summer holidays

A shout out to Kärcher For helping to keep our lifeboats ready to launch Cleaning expert Kärcher is helping to save lives at sea by providing all RNLI lifeboat crews around the UK and Ireland with essential equipment to clean and maintain their lifeboats and lifesaving equipment.

KÄRCHER AND THE RNLI 60 lifeboat stations equipped with vital cleaning appliances such as professional grade pressure washers

In addition, Kärcher is helping to save more lives by sharing our water safety messages and educating the public on how to Float to Live.

75 lifeboat stations to benefit from this lifesaving partnership in 2024

Thank you to everybody at Kärcher and its customers for supporting our mission to save every one.

£300,000 worth of equipment donated by the end of 2025

Read more about our lifesaving partnership at karcher.co.uk/RNLI

Your RNLI family The lives and loves of your fellow lifesavers

Passing out at Peterhead Peterhead RNLI are congratulating Fergus McGlone, who passed out as coxswain in July. Fergus joined the station in November 2021, after a career as a speech therapist. He says: ‘The opportunity to combine being at sea while also doing all I could to help people in trouble was one I couldn’t pass up, so here I am!’

Fergus joined the crew with no previous RNLI experience, so began crew training straight away. After a few months, he moved on to his navigator and coxswain training. ‘The training was intense,’ Fergus describes. ‘I had a lot to learn in a short space of time. I feel very proud and appreciative of the support given to me by the RNLI and those who have taken the time to help me progress over the last year. Thank you.’

What an achievement: Fergus McGlone passes out as coxswain

42 Lifeboat winter 2023–24

After tying the knot, Mike and Lizzie pose for pictures (iconic yellow wellies on) aboard Harwich’s relief lifeboat The Duke of Kent

Wedding bells (and yellow wellies) In June, Harwich RNLI celebrated the marriage of two special lifesavers, Relief Mechanic Mike Hender and Crew Member Lizzie Cutler.

Lizzie, a paramedic, was diagnosed with breast cancer in February. She has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment but refused to let cancer hinder her plans to get married.

After their wedding ceremony at Colchester Castle, the pair came to Harwich Lifeboat Station to take photos. They expected to find an empty boathouse – but instead were surprised by their fellow volunteers.

Mike says: ‘We were delighted to find that our RNLI family were also determined to celebrate with us. They had not only dressed the all-weather lifeboat and obtained ceremonial oars for photos but had also set up a small reception for us, complete with wedding cake!’

We’re wishing Mike and Lizzie a long and happy marriage.

YOUR RNLI FAMILY

Remembering Stuart Adams

Celebrating life

Dungeness RNLI is mourning the loss of Coxswain Stuart Adams, who passed away in July after a short illness.

Stuart joined the RNLI as a volunteer in 1978. In 2000, he Coxswain Stuart Adams, Dungeness’s became the coxswain, providing long-serving lifesaver exemplary leadership and true friendship to all the volunteers he worked with. Stuart was recently awarded the RNLI’s Thanks on Vellum for his role in a tragic service call in December 2022, involving a small boat in the English Channel. He will be very sadly missed.

Stuart Adams – July 2023 Coxswain at Dungeness RNLI Pearl Bagley – August 2023 Volunteer at Maidenhead Fundraising Branch Santiago ‘Jimmy’ Balbontin – August 2023 Chairman at Wicklow RNLI Peter Bougourd – April 2023 Former Second Coxswain at St Peter Port RNLI Paddy Boyle – June 2023 Former Second Coxswain at Newhaven RNLI Michael Catterick – April 2023 Beach Crew at Aldeburgh RNLI Debbie Corke – June 2023 Volunteer Team Support and former Volunteering Development Coordinator Bruce Herbert BEM – July 2023 Former Coxswain at Rhyl RNLI Frank Kelly – May 2023 Former Secretary and Treasurer at the Sligo Bay Branch Rosalind Little – July 2023 Committee Member of the Gloucester and Forest of Dean Branch Doug Matthewson – June 2023 Former Coxswain at Arbroath RNLI Alan Owen – August 2023 Coxswain at Moelfre RNLI Peter Poole – June 2023 Former Crew Member and Winchman at Padstow RNLI Michael Scales – August 2023 Former Coxswain of St Peter Port RNLI Pat Watkinson – June 2023 Fundraiser at the Humber and Holderness Branch Iwan Williams – August 2023 Former Crew Member and Deputy Launching Authority at Holyhead RNLI

Join us in remembering our RNLI family members who have recently passed away

Alan Owen – sadly missed

Coxswain Alan Owen

Moelfre Coxswain Alan Owen sadly passed away in August after falling ill unexpectedly at home.

Alan served Moelfre RNLI for 34 years. He initially volunteered as a teenager. In 2019, Alan fulfilled his childhood dream and became Moelfre's full-time coxswain. His search and rescue navigation and planning was second to none, and he loved sharing this knowledge and passion with his volunteer crew.

Fair winds and following seas, Alan.

Future crew due In New Brighton, volunteer crew members Tom McGinn and Emily Craven announced they’re expecting their first child. The new recruit arrives in January!

Lifeboating runs in the blood for this family.

Tom’s dad, Mark McGinn, is a deputy launch authority for the station, and his mum Sharon volunteers in the shop and with the fundraising teams. And Tom’s brother, Ben McGinn, is a volunteer crew member too.

Tom and Emily’s little lifesaver arrives in January Photos: Noel Packer, RNLI/(Mae Photography, Phil Williams, Connor Wray, Peterhead)

We are sad to report that two lifeboat greats from St Peter Port RNLI have recently passed away: Michael Scales, former Coxswain, and Peter Bougourd, former Second Coxswain.

You can read more about them, and their role in the 1981 Bonita rescue, in the next issue of Lifeboat magazine.

Lifeboat winter 2023–24 43

LB/12/23

CELEBRATE SOMEONE YOU LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS

Add the name of a loved one to the side of Shannon class lifeboat Eric’s Legend 13-40 and they will save lives alongside our lifeboat crews all around the coast. They’ll be there in all weathers, day or night, just like our volunteer crews will be this Christmas – and all year round.

To make a donation and add your loved one’s name: Scan the QR code or visit RNLI.org/LAMlifeboat, or call us on 0300 300 0061 (from the UK) and 01 511 9871 (from Ireland).

Add a name by 22 December 2023 and receive a personalised certificate in time for Christmas.