Queensferry RNLI hosts their most successful Annual Open Day since 2022

The Queensferry RNLI ‘Lifeboat Day’ returned to the Hawes Promenade on Sunday 29 June, where the public were able to meet station volunteers across various roles, including volunteer lifeboat crew. There was also the opportunity to see the Atlantic-85 B-Class lifeboat, Jimmie Cairncross, up close and in action during their afloat demonstration in the afternoon.

Queensferry Pipes and Drums provided the soundtrack for the day, whilst the public were able to enjoy various stalls including a BBQ, home baking, plant stall and tombola. The RNLI pop-up shop also had a stall and raised a further £700 in addition to the amount raised.

Volunteers from the RNLI’s Water Safety Education team engaged with young people and their families on key water safety advice, including the Float to Live message. The crew games stall entertained both adults and kids, with games including ‘How fast can you get kitted?’ where pairs raced against the clock to don lifeboat kits to beat the record crew time!

Further attractions included, RIB trips run by Maid of the Forth and emergency service crew and vehicles from the Scottish Ambulance Service and Blood Bikes Scotland.

The Scottish Newfoundland Club undertook a display in the afternoon showcasing their water rescue skills. This was followed by a display by both Kinghorn and Queensferry RNLI lifeboats. Queensferry RNLI volunteer crew undertook a scenario to rescue a casualty stranded on rocks in front of Hawes Promenade. This was commentated over the microphone by crew members who described all that goes into a rescue such as this one, from pager to rescue. The day was closed by a firefighting demonstration from the tug, Hopetoun, underneath the Queensferry Road Bridge.

Helen Feenan, Queensferry RNLI Fundraising Chair said ‘It was a fantastic day, we were blown away by the response from the local community which allowed us to raise a total of £6,600.

‘These funds are vital for ensuring the charity can continue to save lives at sea. It is also incredibly important that we engage with the local community and raise awareness of water safety and provide lifesaving advice’

Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer and crew member, Sarah Coleman said: 'It was great to see the Open Day return to Hawes Promenade this year.

‘We would like to thank the local community, our supporters and local businesses who all played a part in the day and also making it a great success.

‘With particular thanks to the Railbridge Bar & Bistro who kindly sponsored the event.'

ENDS

Notes to editors

· Queensferry lifeboat station has been operating since 1967. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/anstruther-lifeboat-station