Littlehampton RNLI volunteers welcome the High Sheriff of West Sussex

Dr Fooks, himself an accomplished yachtsman with trans-Atlantic and round Britain sailing experience, was able to observe the lifeboat recovery operations to the slipway and boathouse at Fisherman’s Quay on the east bank of Littlehampton harbour. The RNLI crews undertake regular training exercises to hone their boat handling and lifesaving skills; the blustery south-westerly winds at the weekend had provided perfect conditions for rough weather training.

Dr Tim Fooks, High Sheriff of West Sussex, said: ‘As a sailor myself I’m fully aware of the importance of having the right equipment, experience and judgement to deal with the vagaries and challenges of the open seas. Knowing that the RNLI is available 24/7 throughout the UK and Ireland is a tremendous reassurance as, no matter how well prepared one is, situations can occur where the RNLI’s capabilities need to be called upon. Today’s conditions reminded me that, in addition to a commitment to high-level training and extensive experience of local waters, the Littlehampton RNLI crews also have to be, at times, very courageous. We are all very fortunate to have such an excellent RNLI Station based in Littlehampton.’

Many of Littlehampton’s RNLI volunteers had the chance to discuss their roles with the High Sheriff and demonstrate the broad range of skills that are valued by the charity, from fundraising through to boat maintenance and care, which are all necessary to support the lifeboat crews who are at the sharp end of saving lives at sea.

Nick White, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Littlehampton lifeboat station said: ‘We welcome visitors to our station on a regular basis, but it is especially heartening when the work of our volunteers is recognised by the High Sheriffs of West Sussex. Dr Fooks was able to see the whole station at work and observe the detailed care and attention the boat and shore crews apply to the lifeboats. Many of the station volunteers were present for the visit and we thank the High Sheriff for his interest and for supporting our lifesaving work.’

ENDS

RNLI media contacts Anthony Fogg, Lifeboat Press Officer, Littlehampton RNLI 07823 509032 [email protected]

Hatti Mellor, Regional Communications Manager – SE & London, RNLI 07724 801305 [email protected]

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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.

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