Longhope RNLI throws open the doors for annual open day, raising funds for RNLI
On Sunday 6 July, Longhope RNLI volunteers welcomed the local community to join in a day of celebration, marking another year of lifesaving service. The event brought together residents from across the island, as well as representatives from coastal and community groups, making for a fantastic day.
After a week of rain, the clouds finally parted and the sun split the skies just in time for our annual Open Day though, as is often the case in Orkney, there was still a fair breeze. But a bit of wind never stops us! We were delighted to open our doors once again, welcoming the community in to celebrate, connect, and raise much-needed funds in support of the RNLI.
There was a fantastic turnout from the local community, and we were delighted to be joined by representatives from our flanking stations, in Wick and Stromness, HM Coastguard, and Longhope Sailing Club. It was a lovely day with something for everyone. The volunteer crew fired up the BBQ, serving hot food, loving cooked by our full time mechanic, throughout the afternoon, while the cake table, filled with delicious home baking from our dedicated RNLI volunteer Guild members, was a big hit. The raffle and competitions went down a treat, the shop was buzzing, and there was even rock painting to keep the children entertained. Longhope Sailing Club were on hand to talk about their activities and encourage new members. Laughter echoed across the pier as children played, and for those who wanted a closer look, guided tours were offered aboard Longhope’s lifeboat, RNLB Helen Comrie.
As with any successful event, there is a lot of time and energy invested by everyone involved in the organisation and this was no different as recognised by our newly qualified Coxswain, Steve Rhodes who drew the raffle on the day, and reflected:
‘They said you learned to be a coxswain after your pass out. What they didn’t say was that it would also involve declaring lost property, calling out raffle numbers, giving out prizes, making impromptu speeches, and providing quotes for the lifeboat press officer! But truly, it was a great honour to do so. It was wonderful to see so many residents, visitors, boys and girls attend the Longhope Lifeboat Open Day.
It was also fantastic for the crew to catch up with our volunteer colleagues from RNLI Wick and Stromness, there’s always a yarn and a giggle to be had with our neighbouring stations, who kindly gave up their time to travel across Scapa Flow and the Pentland Firth to join us, helping to make it a very special day.
The day was made even more memorable thanks to the hard work and organisation of the Lifeboat Guild, with games, raffles, teas, and sumptuous home bakes — and not forgetting Alec “Burger King” Sinclair! A truly unforgettable day, where teams such as the Coastguard, lifeboat crews, the Guild, and the wider community came together to excel and enjoy. Everyone helped make it a very special occasion — thank you.’
The RNLI is a charity that relies entirely on public donations. Our Open Day is not only a chance to celebrate the dedication of our crew and volunteers, but also a vital opportunity to raise funds so we can continue the RNLI’s mission of saving lives at sea.
We are incredibly grateful for the kindness, generosity, and ongoing support of our community, volunteers and supporters. While the final fundraising total is still being counted, we’re delighted to share that the shop alone raised an impressive £182.75, an outstanding result for our small island station in just one day. We look forward to sharing the full total once all the figures are in.
Notes to editors
Longhope lifeboat station has been operating since 1874. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: Longhope Lifeboat Station (rnli.org)
RNLI media contacts
Vicky Mackinnon, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07703 688066, [email protected]
Natasha Rushby, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead 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
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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.