Stromness RNLI lifeboat Open Day
On Sunday 30 June, RNLI lifeboat crew volunteers and fundraisers enjoyed a super day on the pier meeting locals and visitors and raising funds for RNLI.
As ever, eyes were cast heavenward through the morning, hoping the threat of rain would not be carried out – it wasn’t. The afternoon remained calm and dry for yet another, bumper, fun-packed lifeboat day.
The special feature this year was the visit of Chris Smith with the RNLI van carrying the RNLI200 scroll. Chris and the scroll are visiting almost every lifeboat station, and some other RNLI communities, carrying the scroll to be signed everywhere it goes. The scroll carries the RNLI pledge, that we are ONE CREW; this is OUR WATCH and we strive to SAVE EVERYONE. Everyone that works, volunteers or supports the RNLI, in any way is a life-saver. We are one crew. The scroll was signed, on behalf of everyone at Stromness, by long-serving volunteers: Liz Johnston, Colin and Coreen Mowat.
A big THANK YOU to all the clubs and societies who turned out to entertain the crowds and help us raise funds the keep the lifeboat afloat. The boats require such a lot of money to operate 24/7/365 that we are always amazed we manage to raise it all from public donations. When we see the generosity of adults and children alike, donating to have-a-go, however, we should not be surprised.
The heaving-line competition was new for this year and one or two managed to score well. When I last checked at Find-A-Groatie-Buckie, the most found in a minute was 11. The Fire and Rescue service offered a go at squirting a hose into the harbour, and who doesn’t enjoy spraying water around – especially the youngsters? Orkney Rowing Club gave folk the chance to try their hand at rowing. Results of the time trial between The Lifeboat Guild and The Crew are being kept secret.
There was dancing, music, stalls, food and drink but, as always, the event was as much about Stromnessians and visitors alike having the chance for a blether.
Thanks and well done to the guild and crew – especially Aimee and Kaja – for all the organisation.
Ends
Notes to Editors
· Stromness lifeboat station has been operating since 1867. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/stromness-lifeboat-station
RNLI media contacts
Richard Clubley, Lifeboat Press Officer at Stromness RNLI, [email protected]
Jaye Mackay, RNLI Media Engagement – Placement for Scotland 07929 673286, [email protected]
Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.