ISSUE 595 SPRING 2011
A ROYAL ENGAGEMENT First appointment with the RNLI
2010 STATISTICS CARTOON CAPERS FISHERMAN OVERBOARD ON THE BEACHES PLUS MOST PEOPLE EVER RESCUED KIDS’ CLUB MAKEOVER NEAR-GALE NIGHT A DECADE'S DEDICATION
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Dear Reader As I write this column, Spring has at THE RNLI last sprung and there’s a welcome A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Charity mass migration into the great number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland. outdoors. It’s time to breathe some The Royal National Lifeboat Institution was fresh air and gain a fresh perspective. founded in 1824 as the National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck. You can catch a glimpse of the Today, it provides the 24-hour on-call search world around the time of the RNLI's and rescue service out to 100 nautical miles from the coast of the UK, RoI, IoM and CI; foundation on page 52 and of the on the tidal reaches of the River Thames; growing future for the charity on and on selected inland waterways plus a seasonal lifeguard service on appropriate page 32. beaches in England, Wales, NI and CI. The RNLI crews and lifeguards have RNLI is independent from Government and their own unique view of life, and you continues to rely on voluntary contributions and legacies for its income. can share it through the lens of the Chairman: Admiral the Lord Boyce gcb obe dl latest Photographer of the Year on Chief Executive: Paul Boissier page 8. Their calm approach to wind SUPPORTING THE RNLI and wave is amply demonstrated in If you're not already a subscriber, you can help save lives from the beach to the open our Rescue section (pages 16–29) sea by becoming a regular supporter of the while the admiration they stimulate RNLI. Find out more from the Supporter Care Team. shines through the faces of our young supporters (14), famous CONTACT DETAILS • RNLI Headquarters: telephone supporters (38) and even royal 0845 122 6999, email [email protected] supporters (8). or write to RNLI, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ Some supporters go more than • Supporter Care Team, for membership, the extra mile (41) and just can’t donations, Lifeboat Lottery enquiries: keep their enthusiasm to themselves telephone 0845 121 4999, email [email protected] (10). You, too, are part of that proud or write c/o Headquarters address above body of folk who have helped save • Legacies Team, to find out about even more lives at sea (4). Come gifts in Wills: telephone 01202 663032, email [email protected] or write and celebrate at our annual meeting to him c/o Headquarters address (43) and listen out for our sponsored • Family association, for retired staff and adverts on the radio over the next operational volunteers: telephone 01202 662222 few months. Do take their message
• Lifeboat Enthusiasts’ Society: Photo: Millard RNLI/Nigel to heart – ‘Thank you!’ email [email protected] • The Editor: telephone 01202 662254, email [email protected] or write c/o Headquarters address above • Advertising in the Lifeboat: Landmark Publishing Services 7 Adam Street, London, WC2N 6AA Tel: 020 7520 9474, Fax: 020 7520 9475, Liz Cook, Editor email [email protected]. rnli.org.uk
Blind and partially sighted readers can choose to receive an audio tape or CD version as well as the magazine – this is a free service. Cover: Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton name Trearddur Bay's new lifeboat Please contact Tracy Carey on 01202 662254 (see pages 8 and 48). Photos: Nicholas Leach, RNLI/Nathan Williams or email [email protected]. 2 CONTENTS CONTENTS 3 Photo: Millard RNLI/Nigel 22 Photo: RNLI/Swanage 10
28 32 Photo: Millard RNLI/Nigel Photo: Millard RNLI/Nigel
14 19 Photo: RNLI/Jonathan Lotriet the Lifeboat NEWS including FEATURES RESCUE VOICES REGULARS 4 Most people ever rescued SPRING 2011 ISSUE 595 10 SPIRIT 16 ROUND-UP 38 NAUTICAL STAR 31 REVIEW The Lifeboat is published quarterly by the RNLI, 5 Top-class photography Facing up to fundraising A plunging car, a crushed thumb and Ben Fogle immerses himself in the RNLI's Breath-taking imagery and the adventures West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ. Meet the team who want to chat not 'chug' a lifeboat under Police escort ... past and present for a new documentary of a real-life hardman © RNLI 2011. All rights reserved. Reproduction is permitted 6 Awards and honours with the prior consent of the RNLI. Opinions expressed by 14 MEMBERSHIP 19 NORTHERN EXPOSURE 41 FROM THE HEART 37 LOTTERY authors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Care is 8 A Royal engagement taken to ensure that editorial information is correct at the Ahoy there! Quick-thinking and teamwork save a Fundraiser Chantal Carr explains Your chance to win £5,000 and help save time of going to press but is subject to change. Storm Force, the RNLI's club for young fisherman trapped behind a harbour wall how her dad is an inspiration lives at sea Any products or services advertised in the Lifeboat by people, just got way cooler ... third parties are not in any way endorsed by the RNLI and 22 CLOSE CALL 45 YOUR SHOUT 46 LAUNCHES the RNLI shall not be responsible for the accuracy of any 32 CLOSE UP A full-on rescue experience and some time October–December 2010 saw more than information contained in such advertisements nor has it Swanage crew get a touch of déjà vu saving investigated or verified any of the information. Advertising 10 years on the beaches the injured skipper of a sinking yacht for quiet reflection 1,200 launches revenue helps subsidise production costs of this magazine. RNLI lifeguards celebrate a decade of All recipients of the Lifeboat also receive RNLI Compass 52 A CLEARER PICTURE lifesaving dedication 25 COLD SWEAT for their region. News in other regions can be viewed at Frozen by fear to a cliff-face and the tide From Victorian wreck charts to rnli.org.uk. Are you interested in receiving RNLI news by email? is rising fast ... crystal-clear statistics If so, you can sign up to our enewsletter at rnli.org.uk/email. 26 MANIC MONDAY Publications and Design Manager: Mark Dunne; Lifeguards treat a bleeding and disorientated Editor: Liz Cook; Researchers/Writers/Assistant Editors: bodyboarder on a hectic Bank Holiday Mairéad Dwane, Valerie French, Bethany Hope, Jon Jones, Joanna Roche, Rory Stamp, Carol Waterkeyn; Proofreader: Anne Millman; 28 A WEIGHTY ENDEAVOUR Design Manager: Laura Wiltshire; Designer: Jonathan Lotriet; A 'wee lifeboat' and her crew prevent Publications Assistant: Tracy Carey; an environmental disaster Acting Print Manager: Zoe Nother; Printer: Pindar, Scarborough.
An RNLI lifeguard guides swimmers back to the safety of the flagged zone at Watergate Bay in Newquay, Cornwall 4 NEWS 5
Most people ever rescued Brew for the Crew Toolstation sponsors flood rescue Last year, RNLI lifeboats rescued had the most launches (74) and You really can’t beat a nice cup home, at work, at school or in 8,313 people around our coasts rescued the most people (138). of tea, and now you can support the village hall – or something (the highest number in our The busiest station in Ireland the RNLI’s volunteer lifeboat different like an open garden or history), while RNLI lifeguards was Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, crews and lifeguards simply by café quiz. assisted 18,775 on more than which launched 64 times, putting the kettle on and having To get involved, visit 150 of the UK’s busiest beaches. rescuing 82 people. a Brew for the Crew! rnli.org.uk/brew or call 0845 Photo: RNLI/Howard Fields That’s 27,088 people who are RNLI Operations Director We’re asking supporters to 121 4999 (UK) or 1800 789 589 A major tool supply company grateful for your support. Michael Vlasto says: ‘Around our organise a fundraising tea party. (RoI) and request your Brew for has pledged its support to the Our lifeboats launched 8,713 coastline, our lifeboat volunteers It’s a fun and delicious way to the Crew fundraising kit. The kit RNLI Flood Rescue Team (FRT) times in 2010, spending a total and lifeguards have once again help save lives, whether you includes creative ideas, a poster, – for the next 3 years. of 10,758 hours (448 days) demonstrated their priceless hold a traditional tea party at invitations and a sample pack Toolstation, with more at sea. Over a third of those commitment to saving lives at and money-off vouchers for than 80 branches around launches (37%) were in the sea. But that is only part of the the ever-popular Lifeboat Tea, Britain, has already made hours of darkness. story; every one of the rescues courtesy of Williamson Tea. a significant contribution Tower Lifeboat Station in carried out by the RNLI in 2010 to the RNLI, and its staff
London was, once again, our was only made possible due to Photo: RNLI/Bob Jeffrey have committed to various busiest, launching 491 times the incredible generosity of the fundraising events over the and rescuing 113 people. public, even in these difficult partnership period. Beaumaris lifeboat crew times. I would like to say thank The Flood Rescue Team (Anglesey) were the busiest in you to all those who support consists of volunteer lifeboat Wales, with 83 launches and us. It’s a team effort and, as crew members and RNLI staff 57 people rescued. In Scotland, a charity, we couldn’t do it who are specially trained to Queensferry, near Edinburgh, without them.’ provide emergency search and rescue services during serious inland flooding, at home and abroad. Coastguard changes Lifeguards in Ireland and Jersey All the details Try Coastal Spring!
At the time of going to print, Summer is fast approaching and In another first, RNLI The Lifeboat Feeling thirsty? Keep an eye Foresters Friendly the RNLI was awaiting the the RNLI’s lifeguards are dusting lifeguards will also provide Enthusiasts’ out for Coastal Spring Cornish Williams Photo: RNLI/Nathan to RNLI history outcome of a UK Government down their rescue tubes, ready safety cover on three beaches Society’s spring water, which is sold in consultation on the Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams for another season on the UK’s in Jersey: St Ouen's Bay, Handbook support of the RNLI. Foresters Friendly Society, modernisation of the Coastguard most popular beaches. St Brelade and Plémont 2011 is now For every plastic bottle which has an enduring service. Under Government standard of search and rescue This year, they’ve crossed Gréve de Lecq. available, of Coastal Spring relationship with the RNLI, is proposals, the number of initiation and coordination will the Irish Sea and will be Our lifeguards will also be priced £6 sold in shops, sponsoring the RNLI Heritage maritime rescue coordination not be reduced, and therefore patrolling in Northern Ireland on duty on all the usual beaches (including and elegant glass Trust through 2011. centres (MRCCs) around the that it will be business as usual for the first time. We are in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, postage and packaging). bottles sold in bars The sponsorship coincides coast of the UK could be for our lifeboats. working with Coleraine Borough Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, It lists the names, numbers and restaurants, with the RNLI being chosen reduced from 18 to 9. The RNLI has been involved Council to establish an RNLI Tyne and Wear, Merseyside, and locations of all RNLI 1p will go towards by the Society’s High Chief The RNLI is independent in the consultation process, lifeguard service on Benone Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, lifeboats and station equipment, the lifesaving Picture this! Ranger, Michael Grealy, as from, but works very closely with, and one thing is certain: your Strand, Downhill, Castlerock, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and after-service details on former work of the the focus for his appeal for the Maritime and Coastguard charity’s lifeboats will continue Portstewart Strand, Portrush Neath Port Talbot. Find your all-weather lifeboats, and RNLI. Malcolm MacDonald, Assistant 2010 –11. Agency (MCA). Our lifeboats are, to launch whenever and West Bay, Portrush East Strand nearest RNLI lifeguarded beach stations (open and closed) in This may Tractor Driver at Ramsey Lifeboat Foresters Friendly Society in the vast majority of cases, wherever needed. and Whiterocks. on rnli.org.uk. geographical order. not sound Station, has been named RNLI has been providing financial requested to launch by the RNLI Operations Director We at Headquarters find like much, Photographer of the Year. solutions for its members Coastguard once the emergency Michael Vlasto says: 'RNLI crew it really useful and interesting, but they have Malcolm took first prize since 1834 and has funded call has come into an MRCC. members work closely with the and our copies are well guaranteed at in the RNLI-wide competition 22 lifeboats, from The Forester Clearly, in the current Coastguard and know many of thumbed already! Order from least £10,000 for his picture of the station’s in 1864 to Pride of London economic climate, some very its members personally; they are Tony Denton at Dawn, Upper a year – Mersey class lifeboat on the Foresters in 2005. hard decisions have had to be part of their communities. It is Battlefield, Shrewsbury, certainly no boathouse slipway (above). The RNLI Heritage Trust made. However, we have been therefore with some sadness that SY4 4AA. Please make any drop in the See more stunning shots cares for the RNLI's artefacts assured by the MCA that the we see their livelihoods at risk.' Photo: RNLI/Jonathan Lotriet cheques payable to ‘RNLI’. ocean! at rnli.org.uk/photooftheyear. and archives. 6 NEWS
Survival experience is top teambuilder
The RNLI Sea Survival weather, and spending some Experience was named Best time in a liferaft – and if that Teambuilding Event at the 2010 doesn’t help your team form a Eventia Awards. bond, we don’t know what will! The experience, which takes If your company would place at the Lifeboat College, like to take on the Sea Survival was developed by RNLI trainers Experience, visit to show corporate groups what rnli.org.uk/teambuilding or call it’s like to train as a lifeboat 0870 833 2000 (UK) or 0044 crew member. 1202 662261 (RoI). Participants pay for the Sea Survival Trainers Grant privilege of jumping into the Walkey, Perry Simpson, Chris wave tank, learning survival Walker and Alex Saywell are techniques in simulated rough pictured with the award. Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams Photo: RNLI/Nathan
Brawn teams fund new London lifeboat New Year Honours Lifeguards award Formula One mastermind marathons and a London-to- A number of RNLI people The Alison Saunders’ Ross Brawn has inspired teams Brighton bike race to secure have been named on Lifeguarding Award 2010 will be from some of London’s leading their place at the top of the HM The Queen’s New Year presented to Jamie Rowlands companies to raise £360,000 in leaderboard. Honours list: and Andy Waterfield of Polzeath just 8 months, most of which Ross says: ‘I’m very much • OBE: Richard Edward Beach, Cornwall, for rescuing will be used to fund a new aware of the work of the RNLI, Dominic Langford, Chairman two surfers on 29 October. E class lifeboat for the River both in London and around of the RYA and Ex-Officio In a demonstration of Thames. the coast, and its status as Member of the RNLI Council, seamanship worthy of an The 10 teams taking part in an independent charity. The for services to sailing and experienced lifeboat helm, Jamie the Brawn Lifeboat Challenge opportunity to be involved so windsurfing took the inshore rescue boat were also competing against closely with this new initiative, • MBE: Ian Jones, for service through 2m breaking surf in each other – as the team that which is enabling the RNLI to to the RNLI in Llandudno, force 6 winds, while Andrew, as contributed the most to the put a new lifeboat on the River Gwynedd crew, focused on the casualties. total were to be taken to the Thames, is something that • MBE: Doris Langford, for The award, sponsored by European Grand Prix in Valencia I am incredibly proud to be voluntary service to the RNLI former RNLI Deputy Chairman as Ross's VIP guests. associated with.’ in Norwich, Norfolk Alison Saunders, honours the The lucky racefans (and The new E class lifeboat will • MBE: Charles Knight Tulloch, most meritorious rescue of the now RNLI supporters too) be shared between Tower and for voluntary service to the season by RNLI lifeguards. turned out to be from Zurich Chiswick Lifeboat Stations, and RNLI in Kinghorn, Fife. We’ll carry a more detailed Insurance, who took on we expect it to be in service Congratulations and thank report on the rescue in the challenges including skydives, early next year. you to all. Summer issue of the Lifeboat. 8 NEWS NEWS 9
A Royal engagement Lifeboat naming ceremonies are always pilot based at nearby Valley, Prince William She said: ‘It’s amazing to think that the SUMMER SEASIDE SPECIAL significant occasions, but few have attracted was invited to name a new Atlantic 85 pennies and pounds from our events and as much attention as the one that took place lifeboat that is now being used by his fellow collections, together with the efforts of the at Trearddur Bay Lifeboat Station, Anglesey, sea rescuers at Trearddur Bay. In his speech, people of Herefordshire, will now be saving Stay at the RNLI College in Poole for 2 nights’ bed and in February. he acknowledged the relationship that priceless lives.’ The world’s media mingled with over had developed over the years between his When it came to formally naming the breakfast or more, in June, July or August 2011 to qualify for 1,000 RNLI supporters outside the lifeboat squadron and the lifeboat crew. lifeboat, Miss Middleton prepared to pour station as volunteers waited to greet two Other speakers included Marilyn Archer champagne over the bow of the Atlantic 85 these very special Summer prices. very special guests: HRH Prince William and from the RNLI Leominster Branch. She was as Prince William said: ‘It now gives us great Miss Catherine Middleton, who are due to be representing the Herefordshire volunteers pleasure to name this new lifeboat Hereford £75.00 double occupancy, per night married in April. and supporters who raised funds for the Endeavour. May God bless her and all that As an RAF search and rescue helicopter lifeboat, along with local fundraisers. sail in her.’ £62.50 single occupancy, per night and if you book by 30 April you will get FREE ICE CREAM AND SEASIDE ROCK! This year, it makes more sense than ever to holiday in the UK. You’ll avoid airport delays and probably spend less than if you travel to the Eurozone, and whatever money you do spend at the RNLI College, will help save lives. Terms and conditions: Offer includes one ice cream and one stick of rock, per guest, per stay when booked by 30 April 2011. Offer is subject to availability on selected dates.
The Lifeboat College
Delicious Food
To book, call 0870 833 2000 or email [email protected] For offers and special breaks throughout the year, keep an eye on our website at rnli.org.uk/tlc_offers Every £1 spent at the Lifeboat College helps the RNLI save lives at sea. A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland The RNLI College, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Photos: RNLI/(Tony Roddam, Nathan Williams) Words: Mairéad Dwane, Rory Stamp Charity number CHY2678 in the Republic of Ireland 10 SPIRIT SPIRIT 11
Once she’s recruited her team, Lucy is also involved from the sea in front of our eyes. On another occasion in training, motivating and organising them. ‘What I someone asked me where the nearest bus stop was and, explain to them is that they are not selling. They are not after I told him, we talked a bit about the RNLI and he chuggers. They are simply being passionate about what was so impressed with the charity that he signed up the RNLI does. That passion is infectious, and that’s why as a supporter!’ people sign up. Once the season has started, I regularly This Summer there will be more face-to-face speak to the beach owners and the lifeboat stations and fundraisers than ever, encouraging seaside visitors to check that my teams are representing the RNLI properly.’ support the RNLI. Why is the charity placing more of Among those who find it easy to talk passionately an emphasis on this method of garnering support? about the RNLI are Alex Margoram and Nicole Slaney. ‘We are reaching a new audience,’ explains Lucy Smith. They met lifeboat crew members and lifeguards as ‘Although we approach people of all ages, the average part of their training before taking to the beaches to age of someone who signs up as a regular supporter RNLI Face-to-Face recruit supporters last Summer. ‘When you talk to the Fundraiser Nicole lifesavers and see the rescue footage, it’s humbling and 'That passion is infectious, Slaney says: 'When a real motivation to encourage more support,’ says you see the rescue 23-year-old Nicole. ‘Our training also involves role play, and that’s why people footage it's a real which increases your confidence. We do team-building motivation.' exercises too, because we have joint targets rather than sign up.' individual ones. That way we’re always supporting and helping each other rather than competing.’ on the beach is 35. Often, they are young families who In September 2010, something happened that appreciate the fact that the beach is a safer place thanks Facing up to fundraising made Alex, a 22-year-old Masters student, especially to the RNLI. And their regular gift is vital, because it’s thankful for the RNLI’s lifesaving expertise. ‘I had spent sustainable. It helps the charity plan for lifesaving in Lifesavers won’t be the only people working hard in aid of the RNLI on the all Summer telling people: “you never know when you the future. A one-off donation is great, but if someone might need the RNLI,” and then my brother broke his signed up and gave 5 or 8 years of support, you wouldn’t coast this Summer – meet the gang who want to chat rather than ‘chug’ … neck while surfing. He was on Fistral Beach in Cornwall, be able to carry the coins away!’ fell off his board and smashed two vertebrae. The RNLI So, if you are approached by an RNLI face-to-face There’s a word for a certain kind of charity worker that, So, where does the RNLI find these outgoing people lifeguards put him on a spinal board, gave him oxygen, fundraiser this Summer, don’t fear the hard sell – and in the past few years, has grown from urban slang to who relish the challenge of gaining more support for and handed him over to an ambulance. He had an don’t expect to be shunned when he or she realises a term recognised in the Oxford Dictionary: chugger. the RNLI? That task falls to people such as Lucy Smith. emergency operation and is fine now. But it was an you are already a supporter (and therefore won't be It means ‘a person who approaches passers-by in the Lucy, who manages RNLI face-to-face fundraisers in the unstable fracture so, if the lifeguards hadn’t been there, signing up as a new regular giver). ‘Anyone who gives to street asking for donations or subscriptions to a charity’. South Devon and Dorset area, finds candidates through it could have been a lot worse.’ the charity is a lifesaver. And we know how much the Made from the combination of the words ‘charity’ and universities and, increasingly, surf lifesaving clubs. ‘We Not all of the people who Nicole and Alex approach lifeboat crews and lifeguards appreciate it,’ says Lucy. ‘mugger’, it’s a less than complimentary term, usually get some fantastic young people! We are proud not to share their enthusiasm for the RNLI – so how do ‘Our existing supporters are part of the RNLI family, so directed at dogged agency staff who you’ll find (or who use agency fundraisers. Compared with other charities recruiters respond when someone says they don’t want the teams love talking to them about saving lives at sea. will find you) in busy shopping areas. our costs are far lower,’ she points out. to become a supporter? ‘Well, if people say no, we still It’s our favourite subject!’ Say ‘chugger’ to one of the RNLI’s face-to-face But why does the RNLI need staff rather than talk to them rather than moving on to the next person,’ fundraisers, though, and they’ll point out that they’re volunteers for this role? ‘For most, it’s a full-time role says Nicole. ‘Hopefully we’re planting a seed that will a very different breed. For a start, if a face-to-face in the Summer. We need people who can commit to mean they’ll listen to safety messages in the future, or fundraiser approaches you and asks if you’d like to make the entirety of July and August, from 10–6pm, 5 days eventually make a donation. I have chatted to people at a regular donation to the RNLI, the chances are you a week including weekends, and to have specialised various times during their holiday and then something won’t be in a high street. You’ll probably be by the sea, training beforehand,’ explains Lucy. ‘However, we do will happen and they sign up. or at an event such as a lifeboat station open day or have a number of volunteers who work with us just at ‘One woman told me she thought the lifeguards were boatshow. And the person talking to you will be working the big events – they are a huge asset to the team and a waste of money because she hadn’t seen them rescue Words: Rory Stamp for one charity only. we’re always working towards having more.’ anyone. But, at that moment, they rescued two boys Photos: RNLI/Nathan Williams
14 MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP 15 Ahoy there! Q What do a gallantry medallist, a member of the Royal
Family and a soap star have in common? Izaak (5) Matthew (7) A They are all former members of Storm Force! There’s one group of RNLI supporters we don’t hear to sign up, helping to make the club an overnight It was becoming clear that poor old Stormy wasn’t and an activity booklet – as well as a membership card about very often: they are lifeboat and lifeguard mad, success. Membership grew rapidly and, 2 years later, really cutting it with this new breed of web-savvy and a different badge for every year of membership. they raise money in all sorts of inventive ways, send got royal approval when Princess Anne’s son Peter kids. But, by the time Storm Force celebrated its 25th Storm Forcers also have a fresh incentive to get their letters and pictures to Headquarters by the truckload Phillips, joined the fold. anniversary in 2010, the RNLI had completed its friends to join too with the offer of a mystery prize. Euan (9) and are, quite literally, the future of the charity. A competition to design a club mascot saw one research and formed plans to give it a new lease of life. Membership of These devoted fans are members of Storm Force, young man creating ‘Stormy Stan the lifeboatman’. The future Storm Force can the RNLI’s club for young people, and they had some Tough and dependable, caring and friendly, Stan soon The new crew This relaunch marks just phase one of a wider RNLI have surprising great news in February when their beloved mascot became the heart and soul of the club. Even today he Storm Force needed to refocus on its core members youth strategy: Storm Force is well loved by our results. When an Stormy Stan got a new crew and their magazine had ‘personally’ replies to every single letter and can often of 5–11 year-olds. So a new chapter began with the younger supporters but what about those older 11-year-old lad fell an exciting makeover. The latest recruits also get a be seen larger-than-life at RNLI events across the UK search for a new crew off his bike and into welcome pack that is bound to make them the envy and RoI. for Stan. The children a canal, he knew ‘I really like being a member of this club! of their school mates. were asked to help by what to do: ‘I went Growing up voting for their favourite right under,’ he said. I think the crew are very special people.’ Why Storm Force? Storm Force magazine is enjoyed by children and character ideas and the ‘But I remembered Rebekah (9), Aberdeenshire The RNLI has played a key role in educating young adults alike and, although early members have now RNLI’s creative team got something I had people about water safety for decades and it has grown up, that knowledge and enthusiasm has to work to flesh out the most popular: the loyal and children and teenagers with a social conscience, read in Storm Force a range of programmes and materials to get its translated into ongoing support. We’re not just talking loveable Mechanic Ruff the dog; Second Coxswain spending power and the internet at their fingertips? magazine, so I stuck messages across. But it has long realised that other, membership or fundraising – some even go on to be Roger the parrot; Tractor Driver Choppy the cat and Traditional membership just won’t do, so work is my hand in the air, less formal forms of engagement are important too crew members or lifeguards, just like Cleethorpes Crew Members Petey and Polly Puffin. To bring the underway on a second project to help engage these which is to show you and that nurturing all of these relationships is vital Helmsman and Gallantry Silver Medallist Gary Barlow gang right up to date it also includes lifeguarding seals young supporters of tomorrow. are in trouble.’ Four to securing future financial support. who admits: ‘I remember being inspired by the rescue Dillon, Grace and Fynn – led by Stan’s niece, Sandy. people spotted his With this in mind, the charity launched Storm stories in Storm Force magazine!’ Bringing production in-house and making savings signal and dragged Force at the London Boat Show back in 1985 – a fun Membership held strong for 2 decades but by on the printing meant that the magazine could more him to safety. way for children to be involved in ‘the exciting world 2006 it started to wane. This period saw a leap in UK than double in size to 20 pages for a lower cost. The Words: Jon Jones of lifeboats’. Young actor Erkan Mustafa (aka Roland householders installing broadband internet, giving result is a bigger and brighter read with more rescue Character illustrations: Piers Baker Browning of BBC TV’s Grange Hill) became the first their children access to free, media-rich resources. stories, news, activities, comic strips, water safety advice, educational articles and competitions with cool prizes – exactly what the kids had asked for! The new membership pack contains fewer items than before but they’re better quality: an exclusive ‘crew’ bag, a pencil tin and contents, stickers, a poster
JOIN NOW! At just £7.50/€10.50 a year, Storm Force makes a great gift. Do you know a youngster who would enjoy being part of Stan’s crew? And whole classes, Scouts, Guides and other youth groups are eligible for special Storm Force group membership. Find out more at rnli.org.uk/stormforce or phone 0845 121 4999. 16 RESCUE 17
FAMILY AFFAIR Newbiggin lifeboat had a call out with a twist on 15 November 2010, as two members of the crew found themselves rescuing some familiar faces. Two men in the traditional fishing coble Crystal Sea called Humber LONG ROAD HOME Coastguard at 10.40am, reporting a fouled propeller. Within minutes, 7 St Bees lifeboat crew faced gale-force the B class lifeboat CSMA 75th Anniversary was underway, with the 11 winds, heavy rain, rough seas and poor fishermen’s crew member sons onboard. The coble was towed safely visibility on 1 November 2010 while ashore. Lifeboat Press Officer Richard Martin says: ‘It’s unusual to rescue 5 searching for a man 11 miles from the a family member but lifeboat volunteers never know what they are going station. Coastguards recovered the to find when they are called out to an incident at sea.’ man but the weather had got so bad it wasn’t safe to attempt passage back 4 to St Bees. Arrangements were made 1 to bring the B class lifeboat Joy Morris MBE back to station by road so that she’d be available if there were any more emergencies. It took over 2 hours 6 to bring her back through the narrow country roads, on her trailer, under 3 Police and Coastguard escort.
9 LOCAL HEROES Arbroath’s Mersey class lifeboat Inchcape launched at 10 8 BEACH VOLUNTEERS SAVE LIFE 9.45pm on 26 November 2010, to go to the aid of a fishing boat in difficulty in 6m seas and force 8 winds. 2 RNLI lifeguards on Fistral Beach, Cornwall, volunteered to carry out If the vessel had maintained her course, she would have weekend patrols without pay last Winter. It was a good job they gone aground on Gaa Sands. But Coxswain Tommy Yule were there on 7 November 2010, when a bodyboard instructor used his exceptional local knowledge to advise and guide carried out a headcount after leaving the water – to find one of his the fishing boat’s skipper to safer waters. Passage back group was missing. He informed the lifeguards, who used binoculars to the station was very slow in heavy breaking seas, big The RNLI’s lifeboats and to spot the 13-year-old boy just about to drift out of sight. One swell and pitch blackness but the crew did well to bring lifeguards carry out thousands lifeguard kept an eye on the child’s position, while another went Inchcape home without incident. of rescues every year (see and rescued him on a rescue watercraft. The boy had swallowed Launches on page 46). Here are some water and was in shock, but otherwise fine. just a few caught on camera and see the list below for more in-depth reports.
7 Fraserburgh, pages 19–21 8 Swanage, pages 22–23 9 Tenby, page 25 10 Booby’s, pages 26–27 11 Mallaig, pages 28–29 MORNING MEDEVAC LUCKY ESCAPE Lowestoft’s 14m Tyne class lifeboat Howth lifeboat crew rushed to the Spirit of Lowestoft was called out to aid of a woman whose car went over the 159m cargo vessel American Tern the harbour wall on 10 January. She on 15 November 2010 (pictured). Just escaped from the car and members before 7am, one of the cargo ship’s of the public helped her to safety. crew had crushed his thumb in a The lifeboat crew then gave first hatch and needed medical attention. aid to the woman, who was having He was taken onboard Lowestoft difficulty breathing and bordering on lifeboat 4 miles from the Suffolk hypothermia. Once the crew had her Words: Mairéad Dwane town, and met by ambulance crew stabilised, she was taken to hospital. Photos: Nicholas Leach, RNLI/(Fistral, on arriving ashore. Lowestoft, Newbiggin, Howth). RESCUE 19 Crew Members Jason Flett and Charles Cumming in the water at Fraserburgh Harbour
Northern Exposure
On a squally November night, functions are quickly impaired making it very difficult for casualties to do anything to help themselves. time was rapidly running out Earlier that day, the Trent class lifeboat for a fisherman in the water Willie and May Gall had been moved into the town’s inner harbour to protect her from damage due to in Fraserburgh Harbour near gale force 7 winds. On receiving the call out, some crew headed for the station while others raced It was quick thinking, forward planning and great straight to the harbour and started up the boat’s teamwork by the local lifeboat crew that saved his engines. life. Added to this was the courage of two young Realising that time was of the essence Victor crew members, who braved the water to bring him instructed Jason Flett (22) and Charles Cumming (18) back to safety. to don drysuits in case they had to enter the water. Duty Coxswain Victor Sutherland was at home They then ran a quarter of a mile to the lifeboat’s on the evening of Monday 8 November 2010 when temporary mooring and still managed to make it to he received a call at 9pm to be told that a fisherman the casualty within 10 minutes of the call out. had fallen overboard in the harbour. Owing to a The man’s cries as he fell had alerted fishermen communications failure, the man was thought to on neighbouring vessels who came to his aid, passing have been in the water for at least 10 minutes before ropes and trying to drag him onboard. After failing this call was made. to get him over the high sides of a boat, they had The fisherman wore only jeans and a T-shirt dragged him towards steps on the harbour wall. and no lifejacket. At that time of year, with a water However, since it was low tide this would have temperature of 7°C, he would have been unable to meant an 8m climb for the casualty and in Victor’s maintain consciousness for much longer than half words: ‘It would have been nearly impossible to an hour. Even after a short time in cold water, muscle achieve that.’ Had the man remained in the water RESCUE 21 Remember he would either have succumbed to hypothermia or far out to sea so the lifeboat can be called as far been crushed by the fishing vessels against the side as 75 miles offshore. of the harbour wall. ‘He was very, very lucky that he The dangerous conditions of the North Sea mean the volunteer managed to hang on that long,’ said the Coxswain. that the town has seen many casualties including the A web of mooring lines from the quayside to loss of 13 lifeboatmen in the station’s 152 years of the fishing boats would have delayed the lifeboat's operation. Last year a local campaign raised £40,000 lifeboat crews progress but Crew Members Albert Sutherland and to erect a memorial to these men. Colin McLeman, who had rushed straight to the Jason, who works as an exhaust and tyre engineer, Lifeboat crews rescue over 8,000 people every harbour, had the quick- had become a crew member at the start of last year. year, sometimes in atrocious conditions. Six thinking to clear these He described the situation as having been nerve- out of ten lifeboat launches are only possible out of the way. racking because it was dark and difficult to see. Unfortunately, the because of gifts left in people’s Wills. rescue team still couldn’t ‘He was very, very lucky get close enough, so the We know your family comes first, and that crew in drysuits were that he managed to hang Wills are a very private matter. So we promise instructed to jump in to leave you to make your own decision. All with safety lines and on that long’ bring him back. Both we suggest is that you give a little thought these young men had Charles, a marine engineer, had only joined the crew to supporting our volunteer lifeboat crews been on the crew for in June. Asked how he felt when ordered into the with a small proportion of your Will. For your less than a year. water, he says: ‘I just went into autopilot. We had to Above: Quick-thinking free information pack about leaving a gift to While the man was recovered, the A-frame and do what we had to do.’ He explains: 'I had joined the crew members cleared charity in your Will, plus Courage is Timeless first aid equipment were readied onboard. In cases RNLI in memory of my great grandfather Andrew the many quayside – our book of inspiring acts of bravery by mooring lines of immersion hypothermia, A-frames are important Ritchie who was one of six Fraserburgh lifeboatmen as they allow casualties to be lifted out of the water to lose their lives in 1953.' lifeboat crews – return the coupon below Below: Lifeboat and horizontally. If someone has been in cold water for Speaking of his crew, Victor says: ‘I can’t commend or visit rnli.org.uk/legacies crew at Fraserburgh some time and is then lifted vertically, it can put the guys enough. It was a difficult situation with a lot Harbour wall great pressure on the heart and circulatory system, of stress, people calling from the quayside and the sometimes resulting in sudden death. time being so short.’ In the words of RNLI Operations Once safely aboard, the casualty was wrapped Director Michael Vlasto in a Letter of Appreciation: in blankets and given oxygen. He was drifting in ‘There is no doubt that this man owes his life to and out of consciousness and had swallowed large the actions of all those involved at Fraserburgh
amounts of water so he was taken by ambulance Lifeboat Station.’ RNLI/Nigel Millard Photo: to hospital in Aberdeen. Fraserburgh is the largest shellfish port in Europe Registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland as well as hosting one of the largest whitefish fleets. Words: Joanna Roche Many of the town’s boats head to fishing grounds Photos: RNLI/Nigel Millard Please send me a legacy information pack. Please return this form to: Mark Allwood, Legacy Enquiries Manager, RNLI, FREEPOST (BH173), West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset BH15 1BF
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Call Mark Allwood on 01202 663032 Thank you or email: [email protected] DAVLB04/11 22 RESCUE RESCUE 23 Close call Swanage volunteers were rudely awoken at 5.25am one Sunday. Within just 10 minutes both station lifeboats were alongside a sinking vessel On 9 October 2010, Swanage lifeboat crew members all knew what they had They quickly dropped anchor and around in the waves and rocks. Clearly and shore crews had to wake up quickly to do. By 5.35am, the Mersey class veered down (reversed in) towards the it was a lost cause. Gavin comments: History repeats itself – in body and mind – in answer to a lifeboat’s search light was illuminating buffeted yacht. Gavin comments: ‘We’re not going to risk the crew for the This rescue had a particular resonance with mayday. It came from just 250m east of the yacht as the inshore lifeboat ‘It was tricky but we’d practised this. sake of a yacht that is holed already.’ the Swanage crew. On Peveril Ledge in 1875, the lifeboat station but was none-the- manoeuvred into the shallows to get I was aware that the boat was going up The Helm later joked that he’d been a brigantine Wild Wave was wrecked and less in earnest. A 10m yacht with two the man and woman off. and down a bit, it was pitch black and I grateful it had been dark when they’d Coastguard Chief Officer John Lose led nine people onboard had run aground on Against a wave height of 1m and was in bed 10 minutes ago!’ got the two people off: ‘It was almost men to rescue four men and a boy. Present-day Peveril Ledge and was taking on water. force 4 north easterly winds, the more scary as it was getting light!’ Mechanic Dave Turnbull comments: ‘It was inshore lifeboat tried to approach the Power cut Meanwhile, in the lifeboat station, virtually the same place. We’re effectively doing A matter of minutes yacht from the south, using the casualty Out of the blue, things got tougher for the yachtsman was experiencing back the same job as they were 135 years ago and it Helmsman Gavin Steeden (pictured left) vessel as a shield. But the water was too the Helm as the D class lifeboat lost pain so the crew called an ambulance. was that rescue that led to the establishment of recalls: ‘It was really, really dark – no shallow, so they had to brave exposure 80% of its engine power. Even when Paramedics examined him and Swanage Lifeboat Station.’ stars and no Moon.’ The experienced to the conditions further east. the engine briefly cut out, Gavin kept fortunately found no serious injury. cool and successfully manoeuvred the lifeboat alongside the yacht. Yacht lost 216m approximately The damaged yacht had been Once both lifeboats were back at pushed further up the rocks and was the station, the crews were reluctant Yacht still upright. The deck was now 1m to disperse. Mechanic Dave Turnbull above the lifeboat and the volunteers reflects: ‘It was sobering to see the boat Swanage were conscious of the threat of a large from our slipway, watching it breaking Lifeboat steel anchor hovering over them. into pieces.’ Station With the noise of waves crashing on The pair who had escaped with their Peveril Ledge the rocks, it took the shouts of lives watched their craft disintegrate Crew Member John Deas to get through and their property be strewn across to the people on the yacht. At 5.53am, the water. With the tide ebbing, some in the darkness, the pair jumped members of the public were scavenging DETAILS onto the lifeboat, as Gavin explains: on the rocks but the crew retrieved a INSHORE LIFEBOAT ‘They were keen to get off, and pretty few personal belongings for the pair. D class D-613 Jack Cleare sprightly.’ Mid-morning the lifeboatmen and ON STATION 27 August 2003, funded by Mrs Phyl Cleare Instead of fighting with limited women finally left the station and went THE CREW power to get the casualties to the for a well-earned breakfast at a local Helm Gavin Steeden (30, Carpenter) relative comfort of the all-weather café. They never discovered what had John Deas (35, RNLI Design Engineer) lifeboat, the crew headed directly for gone wrong with the inshore lifeboat James Chadwick (27, MoD Vehicle Fitter) their slipway with the heavy sea behind engine, which had been fine in training ALL-WEATHER LIFEBOAT Mersey class ON-1182 (12-23) Robert Charles Brown them. A couple of huge waves crashed and in checks before and after the ON STATION over them, quite shocking the rescuees, service. But people who put their lives 12 June 1992, funded by a regional appeal with other gifts and but they were back on dry land. at risk need 100% confidence in their legacies The engine now regained full vessel so a new engine arrived from THE CREW power so the lifeboatmen returned to Headquarters later the same morning. Second Coxswain Robert Aggas the yacht in case she could be saved. (43, RNLI Fleet Operations Manager) Full-time Mechanic David Turnbull (37) In the early light of day Gavin could Paul Elleray (46, Gardener) distinguish that ‘the rocks had punched Steve Williams (46, Software Engineer) a great big hole in the side of the yacht; Words: Bethany Hope Tom Greasty (27, Angling Boat Skipper) Matt Steeden (27, Marine Engineer) it was going to break up and sink'. The Photos: RNLI/(Swanage, Anthony Corben (33, Estate Agent) crew watched as the yacht was thrown Nigel Millard) RESCUE 25 Cold sweat Panic can paralyse. For nutritional therapist As the tide rose, the trio had to keep Julie Brooks (45), it struck during an activity climbing beyond the water’s reach. They she had completed many times before – were to spend almost 2 hours together walking from her holiday digs in Lydstep, on the cliff-face that day. Julie says: ‘I was Pembrokeshire, to Tenby. But this time, the really frightened, but they tried to keep tide came in quicker than she expected, and my spirits up. They were talking about how the weather took a swift turn for the worse. one of the crew had been called away from Also out on the walk, on Thursday doing his shopping at Tesco for the shout, 4 November 2010, were Julie’s children about volunteering, about being called away Michael (17), Simon (11) and Caitlin (10). from work, and they kept me warm with While the young ones went on ahead, a silver blanket.’ looking in rock pools, Julie hurried along as By now, conditions in the cove had got the tide came in behind her. Running out of too rough for the little Y boat, with a 2.5m beach, the group found the rocks becoming swell, so Tenby’s inshore lifeboat, the D class steeper and more slippery, under a sky Georgina Taylor, was launched. It was even turning uglier by the minute. a little rough for this craft, whose crew had ‘Michael, a 6-footer, looked like he was to request a partial escort to the scene from struggling,’ Julie says, ‘but he helped the the bulkier Haydn Miller. younger children on. That was when I started A member of the local Coastguard cliff to feel the danger.’ Julie became frozen to rescue team came down on a rope to Julie, the spot – too scared to go forward but with fitting her with a harness and lifejacket, with the incoming tide forbidding a retreat. the intention of lowering her to the water’s ‘I could see the weather worsening, and edge and into the D class lifeboat. But as it was getting dark. My body shut down; the sea state continued to worsen, it was I felt sick and couldn’t move a muscle.’ decided to lift Julie by helicopter to the She dialled 999. cliff-top and her waiting family. Tenby’s all-weather lifeboat, the She says: ‘Once I was up on the grassy Tamar class Haydn Miller, was launched at ledge above, the coastguards checked my 2.10pm into a force 6 wind and rough seas temperature and said to my husband: “She with a 1.5m swell. needs to go home and have a hot bath and Arriving at Lydstep Haven at 2.24pm, a hot drink.” I was traumatised, and spent two crew members made their way to the the night crying. I went down to Tenby cliff-face onboard the Tamar’s inflatable Lifeboat Station the next day, still feeling daughter Y boat (pictured). They climbed fragile, but they were great. I wish it had up to Julie’s position, and established that never happened but remember the incident Michael had helped his younger siblings to and its outcome with gratitude.’ safety. Julie recalls: ‘I had been standing on one foot, which had gone numb, holding on Words: Mairéad Dwane with one hand, with my phone in the other. Photo: RNLI/Tenby The two guys got my ankles and walked me back to a safer spot. I said I didn’t mind jumping into the small boat, but they said it was too dangerous – I was shaking and already freezing.’ 26 RESCUE RESCUE 27 MANIC
Lifeguard Supervisor Dan Hutton was at the hut and tended to Chris. 'He was confused and disorientated – he had started to suffer from concussion. I treated his cut and, when I managed to get him MONDAY to explain what had happened, I realised there was the possibility RNLI lifeguards were busy throughout of spinal injury too. Getting an abrasion cut on your head from sand Summer 2010 and, for those in north requires a lot of force, which can impact the rest of the body.' Having used the hut's stretcher for another potential spinal injury just half Cornwall, the most challenging day came an hour before, Dan used his radio to request an ambulance and right at the end of the season asked Lifeguard Dominic Wilson to bring another from the lifeguard hut at neighbouring Constantine Bay, half a mile away. Running at Fine weather attracted thousands of Bank Holiday visitors to Cornish full sprint, Dominic arrived with the stretcher in minutes. Dan fitted beaches on 30 August, not least to Booby’s Bay, where sea swells Chris with a protective collar and strapped him to the stretcher. were occasionally sending powerful waves crashing onto the shore. While Dan was applying pressure to Chris's cut and waiting for Among the people enjoying the surf was Chris Hart from Devon. the ambulance, the rest of the Booby's Bay lifeguard team were The 46-year-old was bodyboarding when a surging wave swept dealing with incident after incident. 'It was so busy that we had him ashore and smashed him head first onto a sandbar. ‘I remember to ask the Constantine lifeguards to come and help with their thinking "that hurt" and swallowing a good deal of water before inshore rescue boat,' says Dan. getting to my feet,’ he recalls. 'I walked out of the water and recall a When the ambulance arrived, Chris was taken to the Royal lot of blood pouring down my face.' Volunteer RNLI Lifeguard Adrian Cornwall Hospital at Truro. ‘Having become an RNLI member Mayhew, who lives in Worcestershire and gave up over 100 hours a couple of years ago, I knew the lifeguards do a brilliant job. of his free time to lifeguarding last year, saw Chris and offered first I now have first-hand experience,’ says Chris, who was treated aid at the lifeguard hut. At this point Chris thought he'd suffered and checked over in hospital. ‘There was no permanent damage, little more than a cut head, and walked to the hut by himself. just cuts, a whiplash injury to my neck and bruised pride! My special 'By the time I got there I was obviously starting to talk a lot of thanks go to all at the lifeguard hut, especially Dan for taking charge garbage and starting to realise I'd hurt my neck and back,' he says. when I was concussed and not making a lot of sense. And I thank them for looking after my wife during the whole episode. I count myself lucky to have come off relatively lightly.’ That incident was just one of 35 attended by lifeguards at Booby’s Bay and neighbouring Treyarnon on that day. ‘These were mainly to bathers and bodyboarders caught in the rip currents around low tide,’ says Dan. ‘But there was also a girl who’d hurt herself jumping 8–10m off a cliff at Treyarnon. We treated a surfer too who crashed onto the shore just like Chris did. But none of them resulted in spinal injuries, possibly due to our treatment.’ Volunteer Adrian has since paid tribute to his fellow lifeguards that day. ‘In 20 years of lifeguarding I’ve seen some busy days but nothing like that. I’d hate to think what would have happened if there hadn’t been lifeguards on hand. I’m 40, but so many of the lifeguards are achieving great things at a young age. They are so good at what they do,’ he enthuses. ‘One of them was Vinny Prescott, an 18-year- old doing his first RNLI lifeguard season – he’s a Harlyn Bay Surf Life Saving Club member. He went about everything uncomplainingly and professionally. He got years worth of experience in one shift! It was a day I’ll never forget. I wish I could have wrapped up everything we did and put it on show as an example of what RNLI lifeguarding is all about. That’s why I volunteer – I’m proud to be an RNLI lifeguard.’ Lifeguard Supervisor Dan Hutton (pictured during a training exercise) was among the lifeguards who faced Words: Rory Stamp a manic Bank Holiday Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard 28 RESCUE RESCUE 29
A weighty endeavour it was just like a ghost ship,’ recalls Alex. The Mallaig's crew were confident they lifeboat was taking such a pounding that she had the situation under control but it was had to reduce speed to 10 knots not easy. Michael Ian stayed at the helm When cargo ship Red Duchess’s engines failed in severe the whole time: the Red Duchess couldn’t Rum looms be allowed to get caught by the weather gales her crew were helpless to stop her drifting towards Henry Alston Hewat arrived just before noon because that would put both her and the the rocky shore of the Isle of Rum … to find the coaster lying broadside taking the lifeboat in danger. He had to keep the full impact of the force 9 winds and carrying correct tension on a tow rope that wasn’t Tuesday 2 November 2010 was what’s or yachts of up to 30m. This was a 76m a lot of water. She was in great danger: designed for such weight or weather. known locally as a ‘brown day’ – 50mph vessel so getting up close could put our in the 90 minutes since the lifeboat had Crew Member Stuart Griffin is full of winds and driving rain – when Mallaig crew in danger. I can tell the crew to go but launched, the Red Duchess had drifted to praise for his Coxswain’s skill and tenacity. Lifeboat Operations Manager it’s the Coxswain’s decision,’ reflects Alex. within 2 miles of the island. Her crew were ‘Imagine the level of concentration that Alex Mathieson received a call from Michael Ian weighed up the risks and made understandably relieved: they had watched took; being on your feet that long and not Stornoway Coastguard. It was 10.17am and the call. powerlessly as the cliffs of Rum loomed hardly daring to move – even to go to the the coaster was lying stricken 4 miles south Assistant Mechanic Kevin McDonell was ominously closer. toilet!’ west of the remote Hebridean island – she lying in bed when his pager went off. ‘I’d ‘If we put our boat alongside we would But at 6pm, just when the Anglian Prince would ground in less than 3 hours. been up all night with a sickness bug so I was do damage to ourselves,’ reflects Michael was arriving, the tow rope snapped. With six crew and around 1,200 fairly nervous about going to sea. I hoped I Ian. ‘I remember thinking: “How is this wee tonnes of coal onboard, this would be wasn’t going to the back of the Isle of Rum lifeboat going to cope with this huge ship?”’ A royal encounter disastrous. Even if the Red Duchess missed – it’s so exposed.’ But that’s exactly where A good question with the lifeboat weighing The crew of the giant tug successfully set up the rocks, she would be swept into Harris Kevin was going. 45 tonnes and the Red Duchess, plus load, a a tow and the lifeboat crew were thinking Bay, catastrophic for a nature reserve. The Within 15 minutes of the Coastguard hefty 2,500 tonnes. The Coxswain told the about turning for home when the Prince’s Coastguard Emergency Towing Vehicle request, the volunteers had launched the Captain that his crew were going to attempt tow broke in a shower of sparks, and the Anglian Prince was still more than 6 hours Severn class Henry Alston Hewat – straight to throw a tow rope. This would require a Red Duchess fell back to within 1.5 miles of away. Mallaig lifeboat was 23 miles away into the teeth of a westerly gale and close approach and men from both vessels the shore. It would take at least 30 minutes but could reach Red Duchess within 2 hours. swells of up to 5m. ‘The weather to be on deck – a truly dangerous prospect. to reattach, by which time the Red Duchess Alex contacted Coxswain Michael Ian was so poor you could hardly see Michael Ian took the lifeboat upwind of would be almost ashore. Currie. ‘Generally we go out to fishing boats the lifeboat from the station – the coaster towards the stern and then let Once again, the lifeboat crew attached her fall back. Crew Member Hugh Cameron a tow and edged Red Duchess back into open threw out a heaving line and was successful water. Within 45 minutes the Anglian Prince at the first attempt. It took four volunteers had fixed their tow. This time it held. on the aft deck to connect the heavier tow ‘Once they were safely on their way rope – the lifeboat was rocking badly and you could feel the static in the air calm. they were practically on their hands We settled down and relaxed for the journey and knees. home. We felt quite high – a job well done, six men saved and a Scottish National Too close for comfort – the Isle of Rum Stamina and tension Heritage island safe from environmental looms ominously behind Red Duchess The crew didn’t attempt to tow the Red pollution,’ remembers Michael Ian. He later Duchess. The task was to keep her stern received a Framed Letter of Thanks from the THE DETAIL to the wind. ‘The Red Duchess was not RNLI's Chairman for his part in the rescue. THE CREW behaving herself at all,’ Michael Ian recalls On his return Stuart kissed the ground, Lifeboat Operations Manager Alexander Mathieson (61), with a laugh. ‘We were a long time going had a cup of tea and fell into bed! ‘The Red Photographer and ex-Fisherman Full-time Coxswain Michael Ian Currie (51) up and down, backwards and forwards – Duchess is the biggest boat we have ever Assistant Mechanic Kevin P McDonell (38), not recommended!’ Yet they succeeded in tried to hold: only once have we towed CEO of West of Scotland Fish Producers’ Organisation reducing her drift from 1.5 knots to less something comparable – but that was in Crew Members Stuart Griffin (37), Fisheries Officer; Hugh Cameron (53), Pier Worker; than 0.5 knots. good weather.’ Cameron Sangan (20), Marine Engineer; and ‘I have been out in poorer weather,’ Angus McLean (21) Marine Engineer remembers Assistant Mechanic Kevin. THE LIFEBOAT ‘But it was the endurance factor: 6 hours Severn class ON-1250 (17-26) Henry Alston Hewat head up to the wind – nowhere to go, ON STATION January 2000, funded by legacy of Catherine Hewat nowhere to hide. Luckily, despite my sickness Words: Valerie French together with an appeal, general gifts and legacies the night before, my stomach held up!’ Photos: RNLI/(Nigel Millard, Mallaig) REVIEW 31 Face to Face: Seized Thomas Bush
Ocean Portraits By Max Hardberger Hardy Review by Kevin Hill By Huw Lewis-Jones 1842–1897: Master Painter of Review by Max Hardberger repossesses Marine and Coastal Vanessa Clark ships that have been Watercolours impounded by corrupt port This evocative book showcases images from authorities in lawless, third-world countries. By David H Kirby-Welch and early daguerreotypes to modern-day digital His adventures take him from the John Morton Lee photographs. It includes a gallery of 100 Caribbean to the Arctic, rescuing ships from Review by Julie Maskell portraits of maritime people from around Haitian rebels, modern-day pirates and the world, from the famous (Jacques-Yves the Russian mafia. If caught, he would face This is a large and detailed volume packed Cousteau, Dame Ellen MacArthur) to the imprisonment or death. with over 200 pictures of Hardy’s work that unknown (a fisherwoman from Newlyn). Hardberger avoids violence and uses help to bring this self-taught artist to life. Work has been submitted by leading his wit, humour and local knowledge to The book sets the scene with an photographers including many dramatic overcome adversity. His tactics include informative history of sailing ships and and graphic images taken by Nigel Millard, employing a witch doctor and hosting a British marine watercolours. It then moves who tells us how his interest in the RNLI party in a brothel as a distraction. into my favourite section: a biography helped his photography evolve [he is now Captain Max has led an extraordinary of Hardy based on the scant information a crew member]. He discusses the creative life, holding jobs from high-school lecturer available about him and his family, many and technical decisions made to capture to flight instructor to lawyer. But his love of of whom were to inherit his artistic talents. these shots with the other photographers the sea and his hatred of the unscrupulous The bulk of the book is dedicated to the Joni Sternbach, David Doubilet and Rick keeps calling him back to perform his most works Hardy was inspired to produce by his Tomlinson [a former lifeboat crew member favoured service. travels around the English, Dutch and French who is featured in the Spring 2011 issue of This is a book like nothing I have read coasts and Venice. Offshore]. before; a description of the real-life but The hardback finishes with brief Most of the images have been captured little-known underworld of international biographies of Hardy’s contemporaries in the natural environment like that of shipping, interwoven with a few fictional that help to give the reader an insight into Lewis Gordon Pugh, the 'human polar bear' names and events – and it was thoroughly the wider factors that influenced artists of shown below. Some have been sourced from enjoyable. Rumour has it that Max is soon the time. historical archives, including the RNLI’s. All to be the subject of a Hollywood film. communicate the subjects’ personality along Hardback book with a detailed explanation of their Paperback book Published by the Antique Collectors' Club sea connection. Published by Nicholas Brealey Publishing ISBN 9781851495979 This is a beautiful book of technically ISBN 9781857885569 Price: £35 sound, dynamic images that you can refer Price: £9.99 to over and again.
Hardback book The Review section is compiled by Carol Waterkeyn Published by Conway/Polarworld/Anova How to order: Books Unless other details are stated, all books/CDs reviewed here are available from good ISBN 9781844861248 bookshops and online from Amazon via the RNLI website at rnli.org.uk/amazon. Price: £30 (Available as detailed right but also (Amazon will donate a minimum of 5% of the value of all such orders to the RNLI through the RNLI at rnlishop.org.uk, the route but you must access Amazon via the RNLI website and not go direct.) of most financial benefit to the charity.) 32 CLOSE UP CLOSE UP 33
2001 The trial proved a success, with 20 lives saved and of each arm of the service clearly defined. At the end 3,520 people aided. Most importantly for the future of the season, the RNLI Trustees gave the go-ahead to 10 years on of the scheme, the lifeguards worked well with their carry on lifeguarding. But there was much more work colleagues from RNLI lifeboat stations, with the roles to do … the beaches 2002 A lifeguard’s most important piece of kit is himself or Development Manager Brett Shepherd, who started his The RNLI prides itself on a long lifesaving herself. It may seem obvious that a lifeguard must be career at the RNLI as a lifeguard in Bournemouth, says: fit, fast and strong, but how are these qualities defined? ‘My highlight of the decade was the introduction of the tradition but, in order to save more lives, it The RNLI worked with the University of Portsmouth rescue watercraft – it’s the future of lifeguarding! It’s a is alert to changes in how people use the sea to clarify the fitness levels required to do the job well. fast, responsive rescue tool in the right hands.’ The researchers calculated how fast a lifeguard should When the 2002 season ended, almost 6,995 more People still go to sea for a living. But by the year 2000, with be able to run (200m in under 50 seconds) and swim people had been assisted by RNLI lifeguards. On 3 economies in the UK and RoI thriving and the leisure industry (400m in 7½ minutes) to give a casualty the best October, Rod MacDonald, who had been patrolling with booming, lifeboat rescues were increasingly closer to shore and chance of survival. the RNLI team on Newquay’s Fistral Beach over the beaches getting busier. In 2002, the lifeguards hopped onboard rescue Summer, was out walking when he was called upon to The most popular beaches were covered by council-employed watercraft (RWCs), which can do 40 knots, compared rescue a bodyboarder who had got into trouble in a sea lifeguards and volunteers from local lifesaving clubs – all doing good with the inshore rescue boat’s 26, and can be churning around the rocky Cornish coastline [see issue work but with different standards, equipment and levels of training. handled by a single lifeguard. Lifeguard Training and 564 of the Lifeboat]. The RNLI envisioned a seamless rescue service from the beach to the open sea. With this in mind, a trial was held in 2001, with RNLI-trained and equipped lifeguards on 22 beaches in Cornwall 2003–4 Rod’s courageous out-of-season rescue resulted in his from 22 in 2002 to 27 in 2003, on the same number of and Dorset. being the first lifeguard to be awarded the RNLI Bronze beaches. This may seem positive, but the aim of a good Medal for Gallantry (left). Further public awareness of lifeguard is to prevent incidents from occurring in the the service came with the broadcast of the first series first place. It was time to start educating the public on of BBC’s Danger on the Beach, which was later to be how to stay safe at the beach. The Meet the Lifeguards renamed Seaside Rescue. For six seasons, the show programme, set up in 2003, did, and does, exactly has been aired on BBC One, bringing the work of RNLI what it says on the tin. So far almost 200,000 young lifeguards (and lifeboats) into the homes of millions. people have been given safety messages in a fun way The number of lives saved by RNLI lifeguards rose at schools, at clubs and on the beach. 2005 It is estimated that 95% of a good lifeguard’s work children who live far away from the coast but may visit is preventative. Two more education programmes the seaside on holiday (50,000 participants so far). were introduced in 2005: Hit the Surf, a beach-based But you can’t speak to everybody directly. So, programme that combines safety lessons with surf also in 2005, the RNLI Beach Safety Team led the lifesaving skills (more than 9,000 participants so far), development and introduction of a new UK-wide and Beach to City, which brings key messages to standard for beach safety flags and signs. 2006 This page: An RNLI lifeguard patrols By the start of the 2006 season, there were 62 the RNLI set up a risk assessment service to help these a busy Newquay beach lifeguard teams on beaches in Cornwall, Devon and decision-makers make their beaches safer, with or Overleaf: Bodyboarders get ready Dorset. Relationships had been established with beach without RNLI lifeguards. to enjoy the waves at Watergate Bay managers and local authorities around the UK, and 2007 In 2007, RNLI lifeguards branched out from the south Medal for Gallantry to Lifeguard Sophie Grant- west of England, taking on five beaches in Norfolk. Crookston (right). The year’s other milestone was the award of a Bronze [See the Lifeboat issue 580 or goo.gl/IP2wd]. CLOSE UP 35 2008 RNLI lifeguards’ 2008 debut in Wales brought the cure’ point of view, the average number of incidents service’s patrolled beaches up from 71 to 110. requiring lifeguard intervention per beach fell below Encouragingly, from a ‘prevention-is-better-than- the 100 mark (87) for the first time. 2009 John Dugard and Chris Boundy (right) became the expanding cover in Wales and the West Country. first lifeguards to be honoured with Silver Medals Meanwhile, at Headquarters, the Training for Gallantry in 2009. They risked their own lives off Department was working on a new first aid course for Trebarwith Strand to rescue an angler from a turbulent use on the beach. The course was introduced in 2009, pool known locally as ‘the Washing Machine’ [see the and focused on treating symptoms rather than making Lifeboat issue 585 or goo.gl/jmKgi]. diagnoses, supported by a set of check cards, quick and A little further north, our lifeguards took over easy to use. patrols on popular beaches in Lincolnshire, as well as 2010 Helly Hansen became an official clothing partner to more people holidayed in the UK due to money getting RNLI Lifeguards in 2010, working with our charity to tighter all round, lifeguards at Fistral who had been develop bespoke clothing for the lifeguards in their paid over the Summer volunteered their time for free challenging roles and environment. Throughout our at weekends in the Autumn. The season was over but decade on the beaches, we have relied on volunteer the beaches were still busy, and you can read how they lifeguards to support those who are paid to work full- saved a life on page 18. Last season, RNLI lifeguards time. In 2010, as watersports’ popularity grew, and saved 107 lives on 152 beaches. 2011 and on From a pilot scheme on a handful of beaches to a Looking ahead, Brett Shepherd says: ‘We’ve got respected, professional service on more than 160 some work to do. One challenge will be sustaining the beaches, the RNLI lifeguard service has come a long service through the economic downturn. Another will way. This year, the lifeguards will make their first forays be maintaining the quality of the service as we grow onto beaches in Northern Ireland and Jersey, as well as and take on more beaches. However, the bigger our going onto more beaches in the north of England. lifeguards service gets, and the more recognised, the safer the beaches will be.’ In 10 years of RNLI Lifeguards 162 102,581 597 Lifeguarded beaches People aided Lives saved on beaches
Words: Mairéad Dwane Photos: Jon Stokes, RNLI/(Derek King, Jonathan Lotriet, Nigel Millard, Greg Spray) 37 Lifeboat Lottery WINTER 2010 SUMMER 2011 Dr Simon Anderson of Lincolnshire scooped the £7,500 first prize Why not try your luck with the Lifeboat Lottery this Summer? in the Winter Lifeboat Lottery Superdraw and celebrated with a You too could win one of nine cash prizes – including first prize visit to his local lifeboat station at Cleethorpes with his wife, Fiona. of £5,000! All money raised goes to saving lives at sea.
The other cash prize winners were: Tickets will be mailed to supporters on 28 April 2011. If you don’t 2nd prize: £4,000; Miss JS Wilson, Cornwall usually receive tickets and would like to, please call 0845 121 4999 3rd prize: £1,000; Mrs M Robinson, North Yorkshire or email [email protected]. 4th prize: £500; Mrs S Maw, Hampshire Five prizes of £250 each; Mr R Mears, Lancashire; Please note that due to differing tax and gaming laws, Lifeboat Lottery Mr AJ Slatter, Surrey; Mrs R Nicholls, Essex; Mrs K Price, Powys; tickets are only available in England, Scotland and Wales. For full details and Miss HRA Aspinall, Cornwall (including terms and conditions) please visit rnli.org.uk/lottery or see your Lottery letter.
Right: L–R Winner Simon enjoys meeting Gallantry Medallist (and former Storm Force member – see page 14) Gary Barlow on his VIP visit to Cleethorpes Lifeboat Station
Below: Cleethorpes inshore lifeboat Blue Peter VI in action Photo: Tom Collins Photo:
Photo: RNLI/Mark Spruce 38 VOICES VOICES 39
Nautical TV presenter, writer and adventurer has, from its foundation in 1824 right his extreme challenges and varied the opportunity, through the training and Ben Fogle immersed himself in the up to now,’ says Ben. The documentary’s TV work, he has written a string of press equipment, to save someone’s life.’ RNLI’s past and present during his shooting schedule has also involved inshore columns and published four books. Three So, what’s next for Ben? ‘I honestly lifeboat capsize training in the Lifeboat of those have focused on the sea, including don’t know what I’ll be doing next month,’ latest on-screen project … College survival pool, going to sea in an Offshore: In Search of an Island of my Own. he says, holding up his hands. ‘That’s part It’s stara crisp, cold January morning off the Hebridean island with other volunteers. historic rowing lifeboat and visiting the It followed Ben on a journey to the British of my job. It’s difficult to plan and there’s south Devon coast, and the Torbay Since then TV audiences have watched RNLI Memorial that remembers 778 people Isles’ most unusual and remote islands. no routine. But I find that exciting. I would all-weather lifeboat is powering towards a him meet wild animals in Africa, complete lost while saving others at sea. The trip included an attempt to ‘invade’ love to do more about the sea and the figure waving in the sea. As the 17m vessel a race on foot to the South Pole, and ‘Growing up, I supported the RNLI Rockall, a tiny islet in the North Atlantic people associated with it. I’m never happier pulls alongside, her crew members grab the conquer mountains, jungles and deserts as more and more as I began to understand with disputed ownership, and he visited the in my career than when I’m working on grateful man’s lifejacket straps and haul him part of the BBC’s Extreme Dreams. While the sea,’ says Ben, who canoed and sailed Principality of Sealand, a Second World War the sea – the ocean is my oxygen.’ Perhaps aboard. Ben Fogle has just had a taste of filming that show’s second series in Peru, from childhood and volunteered for the fort off the coast of Suffolk that has been it’s appropriate, then, that Ben woke up what it’s like to be rescued by the RNLI. he caught a rare flesh-eating virus. It took Royal Naval Reserve while studying at the declared a sovereign state by its owners. on the morning after his 35th birthday It’s by no means Ben’s first brush a course of chemotherapy to fully recover University of Portsmouth. ‘Whatever kind He was obviously popular there – he and discovered he’d acquired a permanent with the charity. In 2005, he was halfway from the disease. of sea user you are, the sea is master. You returned recently to accept a title. symbol that will always point him towards through a 2,500-mile row across the Today, though, it’s the chilly English can’t predict what it’s going to do – and ‘What struck me,’ says the new Lord the waves. ‘I got a little bit drunk and ended Atlantic with Olympic Medallist James Channel that is Ben’s main concern. He’s that’s why the lifeboat crews are crucial. of Sealand, ‘is that, even though coastal up getting a tattoo of what I thought was a Cracknell when they capsized. ‘Fortunately, filming a man overboard exercise as part That’s why I’ve tried to support them communities are so different from one compass,’ he smiles. ‘But it turned out to be before we’d set off we’d both done sea of a project that has kept him much closer as much as possible.’ That support has another, the RNLI is always important to a nautical star. I rather like it. It brings me survival training with the RNLI,’ recalls to home: a documentary about the RNLI included running the London Marathon and them. And this documentary has helped closer to the seafaring community!’ Ben. ‘That training meant we both kept our for The History Channel. And, although taking part in an Isle of Wight sea kayaking me realise what sacrifices the volunteers Lifeboat Heroes, a History of the RNLI heads and recovered the situation when a it’s not been as physically demanding as race, both in aid of the RNLI. ‘Raising funds have made and still make. Being a lifeboat is due to be broadcast on The History mistake could have proved fatal.’ some of his challenges, he’s found himself and awareness for my favourite charities is crew member like the Torbay volunteers is Channel (Sky 529/Virgin 234) on 26 April. Ben’s Atlantic mission was just one of in deep water a few times – and he’s more a privilege of my job – and part of my social a lifestyle, not a hobby. It’s a whole other his many televised exploits, which began passionate about the RNLI than ever. responsibility,’ Ben adds. world that runs in tandem with your work with Castaway, the BBC’s Millennium ‘Through this documentary I’ve realised It’s remarkable that Ben has fitted so and family life. And I’m actually quite Words: Rory Stamp project that saw him marooned on a what an extraordinary story the charity much into the past 10 years – in addition to envious of that – the camaraderie, and Photos: RNLI/Nigel Millard VOICES 41
pass the gravy.”’ After her first swim in 13°C open water, Chantal wasn’t sure it was for her either. She lasted just 10 minutes and hated every second. From the heart Remembering Bob, she persevered and In 2003 Chantal Carr weighed 20 stone. Just 4 years later started intensive training: ‘It was like learning she’d lost half her body weight, and went on to attempt to to swim all over again. It’s far more mental than physical – I focused on what Dad would swim the Channel in aid of the RNLI have thought.’ Finally attempting to cross the Channel It took some straight talking from her ailing From the start, exercise played a big part in September 2010, Chantal was forced to father to make Chantal realise she had to do in her weight-loss programme and Chantal stop after a gruelling 9 hours. She recalls: something about her health. She had been in found she enjoyed pushing herself: ‘I just got ‘It was a gutting feeling.’ On reflection, the same sedentary job for years and, after stuck in!’ In 4 years she lost a remarkable 10 Chantal realises what she has achieved and having two children, her weight soared. stone, and is now a size 12 – and fit. Chantal is simply enjoying having her weekends back. Her dad, Bob Woollett (pictured above enthuses: ‘Weight loss changed my life!’ She She plans another attempt in 2012 and is left, with Chantal age 3), was an RNLI decided to take part in the Great South Run already thinking of what her next challenge supporter through and through. ‘Dad was in and planned to surprise her dad by raising will be in aid of the RNLI. For now, Chantal the Merchant Navy, but he couldn’t swim a money for the lifeboats. is helping to save lives as a volunteer RNLI stroke! He was full of admiration for people After a 10-year illness Bob sadly died Education Presenter. She’s sure of one thing: who would risk their lives for others.’ Bob on Father’s Day 2007, before Chantal’s run. ‘I know my dad would have been proud.’ shared his passion for the RNLI with his She completed the 10 miles in his memory family, with holidays to the seaside and visits (pictured above right, with son Tommy), Chantal's fundraising efforts go towards to lifeboat shops and stations. raising £700 for the RNLI. What had been an RNLI Forever by the Sea fund in The family were all shocked when he her father’s passion had become hers too. memory of her dad. If you would like to fell seriously ill. But in 2003, when Chantal Raising funds for the lifeboat volunteers find out how to set up an RNLI tribute had reached size 30, it was Bob who took gave her the motivation to do the Edinburgh fund in memory of a loved one, go her aside: ‘He told me that I needed to sort Marathon – twice! to rnli.org.uk/inmemory or contact my life out and think of my kids. He was But Chantal didn’t stop there. When she Gemma Spencer on 01202 663504. my inspiration.’ His loving and frank words announced over Christmas lunch in 2008 gave Chantal the impetus she needed to that she was going to swim the Channel, her Words: Bethany Hope transform herself. family were sceptical: ‘It was like “OK Mum, Photos: Carr family album PAGEApply TITLE now43
YOU ARE INVITED TO … The Annual Presentation of Awards at 2.30pm and the Annual General Meeting at 11.30am at the Barbican Hall, London 19 May 2011
Join us for a truly inspiring, emotive and joyous occasion. Come and celebrate the outstanding dedication and skill of our voluntary crew and supporters. Our annual award ceremony applauds the endeavours of all who help save lives at sea and make the RNLI an exceptional charity – and tickets are free.
The ceremony includes a guest speaker, a host of supporter awards and our Review of the Year 2010 film.
The Annual General Meeting allows you to learn more about the RNLI’s year in detail. It also gives our governors the opportunity to take an active role in the organisation’s decision-making. (Call 0845 121 4999 to find out more about becoming a governor.)
RSVP You are welcome at either or both events but places are limited so please complete the form overleaf to apply for tickets and return it to us by 29 April 2011. Tickets are free and will be dispatched to you in upon receipt of your request.
We look forward to seeing you on 19 May. VOICES 45
Apply now Get tickets I/We wish to attend the Annual Presentation of Awards on Thursday 19 May 2011 at 2.30pm he ‘shout’ came at 3.20pm one Friday. In minutes, we were aboard RNLB always enjoy reading the Lifeboat. Unhappily, Anno Please indicate number of tickets required TRealistic and I was quickly settled in the Helmsman’s seat, the Coxswain I Domini, changing climate and four operations have by my side. In front of me was a comforting array of dials and screens – radar, made it necessary for us to stop sailing and to sell the I/We wish to attend the Annual General Meeting GPS, compass, chart plotter and more. boat, owned for 35 years. on Thursday 19 May 2011 at 11.30am Heading out between the harbour walls, we had a panoramic view and I find it rather harrowing now to read Offshore before long we had spotted the casualty – a tanker on fire. A helicopter was and Compass magazines so please arrange for these to Please indicate number of tickets required: already on scene but a weather warning over the loudspeaker announced an be discontinued – and of course we no longer require by governors imminent change for the worse. In minutes, a rising swell was making Realistic your rescue services. It has been a comfort to know plunge up and down. Then came a heavy squall, rapidly turning to snow. What they were there in case of need. We have always by non-governors a day to be out at sea! managed to extricate ourselves from any problems Waves crashed over the bow, blotting out our view momentarily. But then encountered but the time might have come when Annual Review, Report and Accounts I noticed a cross-Channel ferry heading towards the tanker, presumably ready we couldn’t. to assist. Rounding the stern of the tanker, we reached the lee side – she was From April, I am increasing my subscription. I/We would like to receive a copy of the Annual Review 2010, and listing badly – but then I discovered with dismay that our throttle was jammed Report and Accounts 2010 in advance of the AGM fully open. I had to steer away sharply, only to find I was heading straight for Yours sincerely NB It will save the RNLI money if you can collect your copy at the meeting the ferry. Further avoiding action was required and I was disconcerted to see Lucie le Cheminant, a passenger liner and another ship steaming towards us! Bembridge, Isle of Wight I/We cannot attend either meeting but would like to receive a copy My hands and brain were fully occupied by the swell, the snow and our of the Annual Review 2010 and Report and Accounts 2010 speed, and I had no time to register what the third vessel was. With much (NB both documents will also be available online at rnli.org.uk) slewing from side to side we managed to keep clear of this mêlée of craft The Editor comments: and then – disaster – a submarine surfaced, just metres away. No amount All RNLI supporters may stay at the Lifeboat College Buy the Review of the year 2010 film of wrenching the helm could steer us clear and we braced ourselves for an when the crew are away – see the advert on page 9. immediate collision … Amazingly no one was injured, not even thrown off Thank you to the very many readers who wrote I would like to purchase DVD(s) of the extended review of the their feet. or rang to point out our error on page 52 of the last year film, to be sent to me after the ceremony whether I attend or The Realistic (or so I decided to call her) is the simulator at the Lifeboat issue. A digit dropped out mid production, creating not. I enclose a cheque for £10 (€10) per copy, including postage College in Poole. All of the controls and displays behave exactly as they would the impression that the Penlee disaster was in 1962 and packing. in real life. This bridge can simulate any condition that an all-weather lifeboat instead of 1981. Apologies all round. UK supporters should make cheques payable to RNLI (Enterprises) Ltd. crew might meet – as well as the truly unlikely! RoI supporters should make cheques payable to RNLI. I had been treated to this experience as part of a family weekend staying at the RNLI’s college for my 80th birthday and we had a splendid few days. Your details John Battison, RNLI Member Totnes, Devon Your name(s)
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By giving us your email address you agree that we may send you information about the RNLI by this method. We never pass on your data to other organisations To add your shout, write to the Editor at Please return to: [email protected] or RNLI Headquarters, AGM office, RNLI, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. 46 LAUNCHES LAUNCHES 47
LIFEBOAT AND HOVERCRAFT LAUNCHES The launches listed here are those for which returns had been received at RNLI Headquarters 1,240 OCTOBER–DECEMBER 2010 and processed by 11 January 2011
ABERDEEN BALLYGLASS BURNHAM-ON-SEA CULLERCOATS FLAMBOROUGH HORTON AND LITTLE AND MORECAMBE PORT ERIN ROSSLARE HARBOUR ST HELIER TOBERMORY ON-1248(17-24): ON-1235(17-15):Nov1,20 B-795:Oct20,28 B-811:Oct31 B-820:Oct9 PORT EYNON BROAD HAVEN D-722:Nov27 B-825:Nov16 ON-1276(17-43):Nov6 ON-1292(16-12):Oct27,28, ON-1270(17-39):Oct5 Oct20,Dec9 D-687:Dec4 D-664:Oct20,22,28 B-815:Oct1,7,10(x2),19 FLEETWOOD D-688:Oct24,Dec5 D-628:Oct5,10 H-002:Nov13,20,27 PORT TALBOT RYE HARBOUR Nov22 TORBAY D-694:Oct20,Nov19,Dec9 BALTIMORE BURRY PORT DART ON-1156(47-038): HOWTH LITTLEHAMPTON MUDEFORD D-713:Oct8(x2),10,15,16 B-842:Oct9,10,16,23,24 B-816:Oct15,16,Nov22 ON-1255(17-28):Dec1,12 ABERDOVEY ON-1137(47-024): B-768:Oct4 D-702:Oct2,5,6,7,24(x2), Oct10,23,Nov20(x2),27 ON-1258(14-33): B-779:Oct4,9,10,16,17(x2) B-806:Oct10(x2),30, PORTAFERRY SALCOMBE ST IVES ON-1262(17-33): B-758:Oct9 Oct21,Dec29 D-660:Oct4,7,10 Dec6,12,25 D-719:Oct10(x3),23, Oct17,24,29,Nov8 D-631:Oct4,13,17,23,25 Nov2,28,Dec21,25 B-833:Oct2,7,10,Nov7 ON-1289(16-09):Oct28 ON-1167(12-009):Oct30, Oct5,14,19,22,25,Nov4 ABERSOCH BANGOR CALSHOT DOUGLAS Nov20(x2),Dec12 D-659:Oct1,9,Dec14 LITTLESTONE-ON-SEA NEW BRIGHTON PORTHCAWL B-794:Dec31 Nov30,Dec27 D-651:Oct25,Nov4(x2),6, B-790:Oct10,27,Nov29, B-805:Oct20,31(x2), ON-1114(47-011):Oct3 ON-1122(47-017): FLINT HUMBER B-785:Oct17 B-837:Oct30 B-832:Oct2,10,Nov7,28, SCARBOROUGH D-645:Dec4,27 Dec29 Dec9,20 Nov6,Dec15,25 ON-1157(47-039): Nov23,Dec11 D-658:Nov23,24,28 ON-1216(17-05): LLANDUDNO H-005:Dec27 Dec30 ON-1192(12-33):Dec5 D-668:Oct2,21 TOWER ABERYSTWYTH BARMOUTH Nov7,16,26,Dec5,28,29 DOVER FOWEY Oct31,Nov12,Dec7 ON-1164(12-006):Oct9 NEW QUAY (WALES) PORTHDINLLAEN SEAHOUSES ST MARY’S E-002:Dec8(x2),9(x2),10, B-822:Oct1,4,11,12(x2),28, ON-1187(12-28):Nov23 D-609:Oct6,Nov16(x2),26, ON-1220(17-09): ON-1222(14-18):Oct4,9,19, ON-1254(17-27): D-656:Oct28,Dec25 ON-1172(12-15): ON-1120(47-015):Oct22 D-686:Oct5,15 ON-1229(17-11):Oct29 11(x2),12(x2),13(x2),31 Nov2,3,14 BARRA ISLAND Dec23,28 Oct10(x2),14,16,26,Dec21 Nov30 Oct7,Dec10 LOCH NESS Oct8,12(x2) PORTPATRICK SELSEY ST PETER PORT E-004:Oct1(x2),3(x2), ACHILL ISLAND ON-1230(17-12):Oct10,25, CARDIGAN ON-1260(17-31):Dec5,8 D-681:Nov30 HUNSTANTON B-707:Oct7,9,20 D-616:Oct8,29 ON-1151(47-033): ON-1146(47-031):Oct9,10 ON-1203(17-04):Nov1 Nov16(x2),17(x2),19 ON-1240(14-28):Oct5 Nov1,2 B-752:Oct12,13,Nov8, DUN LAOGHAIRE FRASERBURGH B-749:Oct1,6,Dec12 LOCHINVER NEWBIGGIN Oct25,Nov6 D-691:Oct10 STAITHES AND E-005:Oct3,4(x2),5(x2), ALDEBURGH BARROW Dec10 ON-1200(14-05): ON-1259(14-34):Oct9(x3), H-003:Oct6,Nov1 ON-1271(17-40): B-745:Nov15 PORTREE SENNEN COVE RUNSWICK 6(x2),7,9(x2),10(x3),16(x4), ON-1193(12-34):Oct22 ON-1288(16-08):Nov27 D-709:Oct8,9,29,Nov8 Oct12,17,Nov1 10,14,Nov8,Dec2,11,12 ILFRACOMBE Oct8,13,Nov18 NEWHAVEN ON-1214(14-16): ON-1286(16-06):Oct30 B-788:Oct3 17(x2),18,19(x2),20(x2),23, ALDERNEY D-733:Oct9 CASTLETOWNBERE ON-1210(14-12):Dec13 GALWAY ON-1165(12-007): LONGHOPE ON-1243(17-21): Oct5,Dec15 ON-1294(16-14):Oct10, STORNOWAY 25,26(x4),27(x4),28,29,30, ON-1199(14-04):Nov18 BARRY DOCK ON-1277(17-44):Oct31, D-731:Oct5,8,Dec6,13 B-757:Oct11,Nov2,Dec7,12 Oct4,8,9,10(x2),Nov6 ON-1280(16-01): Oct30,Nov24,28,Dec6 PORTRUSH Nov18 ON-1238(17-18):Nov23, 31(x3),Nov1,3,4(x2),5(x3), ON-1213(14-15):Oct11 ON-1245(14-29):Oct10 Nov7,27,Dec8,21,29 DUNBAR GIRVAN D-717:Oct8,10(x2),27,Dec4 Oct28,Nov2 NEWQUAY (CORNWALL) ON-1257(17-30):Oct28,31, SHEERNESS Dec16,27 6,7(x3),9,10,11,12,14,22, AMBLE BEAUMARIS CHISWICK ON-1266(14-35): ON-1196(12-37):Dec19 INVERGORDON ON-1284(16-05):Dec4 B-821:Oct15,25,26, Nov1,2,10,13,15,16 ON-1211(14-13):Nov11, STRANRAER 24(x3),26(x2),27,29,30, ON-1176(12-19): B-838:Oct9(x4),10,18, E-002:Nov6(x2),7,12(x2), Oct5,16,19,26,Nov14,21 GRAVESEND ON-1206(14-08):Oct4 LOOE Nov17,25,Dec13,14 D-738:Oct28,31,Nov13 Dec29 D-697:Oct18 Dec2(x2),3,4(x2),14(x2), Oct3,8,Dec19 25,29,Nov7,Dec11,28(x2), 14(x2) D-708:Oct4,5 B-803:Oct5,6,10,11 ON-1225(14-21):Oct4 B-793:Oct10,19,Nov12,14, D-636:Oct15,25,26,Nov5, PORTSMOUTH D-662:Oct3,5,23(x2),28, STROMNESS 15(x2),16,17(x2),20,21,22, D-736:Oct3,20,Dec19 29,31 E-006:Oct3,8,10(x2), DUNGENESS B-827:Oct4,16,Nov1, ISLAY Dec1 Dec13,20 B-730:Oct3,7(x2) Nov3,Dec13 ON-1237(17-17):Oct20 23,24,25(x5),26,27,28(x2), ANGLE BEMBRIDGE 23(x2),24(x2),25(x2),27,28, ON-1186(12-27):Oct1,18 19(x2),Dec10,17,21,29,30, ON-1219(17-08):Oct9 D-574:Oct10,Nov1 NORTH BERWICK B-825:Dec24,26 SHERINGHAM SUNDERLAND 30,31 ON-1291(16-11): ON-1124(12-001):Oct7 Nov5(x2),10,11,12,14,18,19, DUNMORE EAST 31(x2) KESSOCK D-741:Dec1 D-619:Oct2,23 B-846:Oct23,Dec13 B-818:Oct17 B-845:Oct7,10,31,Nov1,6, TRAMORE Nov9,Dec5 ON-1297(16-17):Nov7,14 27,Dec2,4,5,10,11,13,15,18 ON-1215(14-17):Nov8,26 GREAT YARMOUTH B-771:Nov2,3,Dec5, LOUGH DERG OBAN D-716:Oct9,16,24,Nov6 SHOREHAM HARBOUR 13,Dec8,28 D-643:Oct13,Nov18, D-638:Oct18,19 BLACKPOOL CLACTON-ON-SEA EASTBOURNE AND GORLESTON 12(x2),24 B-736:Oct25 ON-1227(14-23):Oct3,9,10, PWLLHELI ON-1117(47-014):Oct3,5, D-608:Oct5,9(x2),Nov6,15 Dec25 ANSTRUTHER B-748:Oct2,10,19,Dec12 B-744:Nov6,28,Dec5 ON-1195(12-36):Oct10, B-762:Nov2,10,16, KILKEEL LOUGH SWILLY 19,30,Nov3,4,7,11,17,Dec5, ON-1168(12-010): 24,Nov3,4,12 SWANAGE TREARDDUR BAY ON-1174(12-17): D-729:Nov15,Dec12 D-723:Oct10,Nov6,14 16(x2),20,26,29,30,31, Dec1,11,19 B-801:Nov22 ON-1142(47-029):Nov1,2 10,21,23,30 Oct10,Nov17,18 ON-1293(16-13):Dec5 ON-1182(12-23): B-847:Dec31 Oct19,Nov7 D-732:Oct2,19,Nov15 CLEETHORPES Nov4,6,17,Dec26 B-786:Oct17,25,29 B-812:Dec20 B-819:Oct6,14,31,Nov3 ON PASSAGE D-676:Oct16 ON-1295(16-15):Dec12 Oct9,Nov24 D-614:Oct17 D-615:Nov7 BLYTH D-618:Oct4(x3),8 D-605:Oct8,17,20,26,30, HARTLEPOOL B-830:Oct3,22 LOWESTOFT ON-1220(17-09):Oct1 QUEENSFERRY D-647:Oct3,5,8,Nov6 D-613:Oct9(x2),Nov24, TROON APPLEDORE D-606:Nov6,15,19,Dec14 D-640:Oct30,31,Nov9,13, Nov5,Dec26 ON-1225(14-21):Nov25 KILMORE QUAY ON-1132(47-020): ON-1290(16-10):Oct15(x2) B-735:Oct11,16,19,26,30, SKEGNESS Dec12 ON-1275(14-38):Oct3,9, ON-1286(16-06):Nov23 BORTH Dec4,29 ENNISKILLEN ON-1274(14-37): ON-1133(47-021):Oct14 Oct10,Nov6,15,Dec18 PADSTOW Nov6,Dec10 ON-1166(12-008): TEDDINGTON 24,29,31(x2),Nov16,29 ON-1296(16-16):Oct24 D-622:Oct1,9(x2) CLIFDEN B-702:Nov6 Oct31,Nov6,10,18,26 ON-1298(16-18):Oct18, LYME REGIS ON-1283(16-04):Nov25 RAMSEY Oct7,9(x2),11,30 D-648:Oct26,28,Nov6,11 D-684:Oct9,24,29,Nov16, B-727:Oct12,19,24,Nov13 BRIDLINGTON B-751:Oct10(x2) B-703:Nov6,29 B-766:Oct31,Nov6,26 Nov5,26,Dec9,18,22, B-741:Nov17,30 PEEL ON-1171(12-14):Nov25 D-739:Oct9(x2),10,11 D-743:Dec20 29,Dec16 ARAN ISLANDS ON-1148(12-11):Oct13, CLOVELLY EXMOUTH HARWICH 23(x2),25 B-767:Oct7,9,17,24,25 ON-1181(12-22):Oct8 RAMSGATE SOUTH BROADS TEIGNMOUTH TYNEMOUTH ON-1217(17-06):Oct2,7, Nov16,23 B-759:Oct22 ON-1178(12-21):Oct17 ON-1201(17-02): Oct4, KILRUSH LYMINGTON PENARTH ON-1197(14-02): XP-42:Oct19,Nov16,21 B-809:Oct9(x2),Nov13,21, ON-1242(17-20): Nov16,Dec10,11,17,18, D-721:Dec29 CONWY D-669:Oct7(x2),8(x2), 9(x2),21,22(x2),Nov2,5,28 B-844:Oct6 B-784:Oct10,18,Nov5 B-839:Oct1,2,Nov10,14,23, Oct9,Nov1,Dec24 SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Dec6 Oct20,Nov7 19(x2),20,23 BRIGHTON D-627:Oct23,Dec29 9(x2),10(x2),13,30,Nov13, B-789:Oct9(x2),26,Nov1,2, KINGHORN LYTHAM ST ANNES Dec29 B-765:Oct9,31 B-776:Oct9,10,16,31 TENBY D-693:Nov5,10,Dec17 ARBROATH B-737:Oct8,9,10,15,Nov14, COURTMACSHERRY 28,Dec2,30 21,28,Dec18 B-836:Oct3,4,13,17,28, D-657:Oct8 D-692:Oct6,8,Nov10(x2), RED BAY D-633:Dec15 ON-1281(16-02): VALENTIA ON-1194(12-35): Dec26 HARBOUR EYEMOUTH HASTINGS Nov3,4,7(x2) MALLAIG 19,Dec5,28 B-843:Oct13,17,Nov13, H-004:Oct16,Dec15 Oct7,27,29,Nov4,24 ON-1218(17-07): Oct31,Nov26 BROUGHTY FERRY ON-1205(14-07):Oct3,25, ON-1209(14-11): ON-1125(12-002):Oct5 KINSALE ON-1250(17-26):Oct3,27, PENLEE Dec10 SOUTHWOLD D-727:Oct27,Nov4,14,17, Oct9,Nov21,26 D-621:Oct31 ON-1252(14-31):Oct3,4,16, Nov27,Dec1,15 Oct7,14,Dec5 D-699:Oct5,Nov19,20, B-796:Oct28,Nov29,Dec5 31,Nov2,7,16,19,Dec8 ON-1265(17-36):Oct5(x3), REDCAR B-750:Oct3,31 24,Dec15 WALTON AND FRINTON ARKLOW Nov4,7,14,26,Dec22,25 COWES FALMOUTH Dec31 KIRKWALL MARGATE 13,16(x2),Nov15,18 B-777:Oct7,Nov6,20, ST ABBS THE LIZARD ON-1154(47-036):Oct9, ON-1223(14-19):Oct1,3,4, D-698:Oct4(x2),14,16,27, B-810:Oct6,22,23, ON-1256(17-29):Oct8,28, HAYLING ISLAND ON-1231(17-13):Nov1,25 ON-1184(12-25):Nov10 B-787:Oct5,6,13,28 Dec26,28 B-724:Nov25 ON-1121(47-016):Oct15 Nov7(x2),19,26,Dec29 Nov14,26 Nov4,7,12,14,27(x2),Dec22 Nov15,24,Dec11 31,Nov12,26,Dec10 B-829:Oct8,10,31,Nov7,9, KYLE OF LOCHALSH D-706:Oct2,Nov20 PETERHEAD D-677:Nov6 B-783:Oct11,14,17 THE MUMBLES ON-1184(12-25):Oct25,31 ARRAN (LAMLASH) BUCKIE CRICCIETH B-773:Oct3,7,25,28, Dec5,12,31 B-740:Oct5,7,Nov19,20 MINEHEAD ON-1282(16-03): RHYL ST AGNES ON-1126(47-018): WELLS B-770:Oct31 ON-1268(17-37):Oct4, A-73:Dec30 Nov8,26,Dec10 D-642:Oct8,9,Nov7(x2),9, LARGS B-824:Oct10,24,Nov4 Oct9,10,Dec25 ON-1183(12-24): D-641:Oct26,Dec2,30 Oct16,Nov5 ON-1161(12-003): ARRANMORE Nov5,Dec1 B-823:Oct9(x2),Nov8, FETHARD Dec18 B-739:Oct3(x2),10(x3),25 D-712:Oct10,Nov4 PLYMOUTH Oct13,18,Dec21 ST BEES ON-1127(47-019):Dec15 Oct3,Nov1,Dec29 ON-1244(17-22): BUDE Dec30 D-683:Dec23(x2) HELENSBURGH LARNE MOELFRE ON-1264(17-35):Oct1,5,29, D-632:Oct13,16,Nov17, B-831:Nov1 D-623:Oct10(x2),12,14,22, D-661:Oct9,31(x2),Nov1,6 Oct1,18,28,Dec5 D-617:Oct8 CROMER FILEY B-791:Oct2,4,Dec31 ON-1246(14-30):Oct10 ON-1116(47-013):Oct12,25 Nov12,13,18,19,Dec26 Dec8 ST CATHERINE 24(x2),Nov19 WEST KIRBY BALLYCOTTON BUNDORAN ON-1287(16-07): ON-1170(12-13):Dec14 HELVICK HEAD D-646:Oct10 D-689:Oct25,29 B-775:Oct5,18,19,29, ROCK B-841:Oct5,8 THURSO D-612:Oct5,8(x2),9,10,11, ON-1233(14-25): B-834:Oct12 Oct17,Nov12 D-728:Oct4,17,Dec14,31 B-760:Oct25 LERWICK MONTROSE Nov4,16,19 D-634:Oct2,9,23,28,29, ST DAVIDS ON-1273(17-42): Nov8 Oct10,11,Nov9,13 BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH CROSSHAVEN FISHGUARD HOLYHEAD ON-1237(17-17):Oct3(x2) ON-1152(47-034): POOLE Dec9 ON-1139(47-026):Dec4 Dec16,25(x2) WEST MERSEA B-733:Oct8,10,24,Nov2,26 B-782:Oct7,8,9(x2),10,12, ON-1198(14-03):Nov8,19, ON-1272(17-41): Nov25,26,Dec3 ON-1131(47-023):Oct3,7, D-704:Dec4 TIGHNABRUAICH B-761:Oct9,10,30,Nov28 D-672:Nov2 Nov11,13,16,Dec31(x2) 29,Dec21 Oct17(x2),25,Nov19 D-626:Nov25 17(x2),23,Dec5 B-743:Oct26,Nov8 D-652:Oct20,21 D-654:Oct13,17(x2) B-826:Oct3,9,10,16,17(x2), 27,31,Nov6,12,Dec5,7
ON-####(12-##) ON-####(14-##) ON-####(16-##) ON-####(17-##) ON-####(47-###) B-### D-### E-### H-### Mersey class Trent class Tamar class Severn class Tyne class B class D class E class Inshore rescue hovercraft last built: 1993 last built: 2003 introduced 2006 last built: 2004 last built: 1990 Atlantic 75 or 85 new cost: £31,000 last built: 2002 new cost: £175,000 refit cost: £190,000 refit cost: £220,000 new cost: £2.7M refit cost: £255,000 refit cost: £200,000 new cost: £160,000 refit cost: £70,000
Additional rescue craft: BB-### Y-### X-### XP-### A-## RWC-### Boarding boat Y boat X boat XP boat Arancia inshore rescue boat Rescue watercraft 48 LAUNCHES 49
WESTON-SUPER-MARE WHITBY WICKLOW ON STATION B-769:Oct11,20,28,29 ON-1212(14-14):Oct15, D-671:Oct30 D-742, Spirit of Leicester, Port St Mary, 19 October 2010 Friends of the RNLI (D-575 has been withdrawn) D-696:Oct11,20,28,29, Nov7(x2),Dec4 WITHERNSEA Amazon Loch Fyne Nov15,23,Dec11 ON-1253(14-32):Oct2 D-701:Nov11 D-725, Kenneth R Easter, relief fleet, 19 October 2010 WEYMOUTH D-674:Oct2,15 WORKINGTON ON-1297 (16-17), Alfred Albert Williams, Bembridge, 20 October 2010 The RNLI receives at least 5% Look out for special RNLI ON-1261(17-32):Nov13,28, WHITSTABLE ON-1141(47-028): (ON-1124 (12-001) has been withdrawn) of your order value only via events at your local Loch B-846, Norma T, Portsmouth, 23 October 2010 Dec5,10,20,29 B-764:Oct7,30,Nov16,21 Nov17,Dec16 (B-730 has been withdrawn) www.rnli.org.uk/amazon. Fyne restaurant. Find out B-746:Oct2,Nov7,Dec16 WICK YARMOUTH D-740, MYJO, relief fleet, 27 October 2010 Photo: Nicholas Leach Photo: Nicholas B-774:Dec28,29,31 ON-1224(14-20):Oct15 ON-1249(17-25):Oct15 more at www.lochfyne.com/ ON-1298 (16-18), Killarney, Kilmore Quay, 27 October 2010 (ON-1133 (47-021) has been withdrawn) Bishop Skinner lifeboatappeal. NAMING CEREMONIES B-847, Hereford Endeavour, Trearddur Bay, 10 November 2010 You get discounted boat (B-731 has been withdrawn) D-723, Basil Eric Brooks, Blackpool, 13 November 2010 insurance policy and the RNLI mywineclub D-729, Eileen Mary George, Blackpool, 13 November 2010 D-741, Ollie Naismith, Looe, 15 November 2010 D-725, Kenneth R Easter, Aldeburgh, 25 November 2010 (D-574 has been withdrawn) receives 2.5% of the premium. Choose from a selection of B-847, Hereford Endeavour, Trearddur Bay, 24 February 2011 ON-1293 (16-13), Victor Freeman, relief fleet, 16 November 2010 Call 0800 783 8057 or visit wines from around the world at (see page 8 and picture below) D-743, Olwen and Tom, Teddington, 9 December 2010 ON-1295 (16-15), Enid Collett, Shoreham Harbour, 10 December 2010 www.bishopskinner.com. www.mywineclub.co.uk/rnli. (ON-1293 (16-13) has been withdrawn) The RNLI receives 10% of the Please note that the correct number for Appledore’s Tamar class lifeboat Mollie Hunt is ON-1296 (16-16) and not as previously published. Cottages4you value of your first order and 5% Supporters get a 5% discount on of any additional orders. a stay in a holiday home and the RNLI receives at least 5% of the Inkjet and mobile booking price. See the advert on phone recycling page 24 or visit The Recycling Factory will give www.cottages-4-you.co.uk/rnli the RNLI up to £4.50 for each to find out more. recycled inkjet cartridge and up to £15 for mobiles. Find out Everyclick more at [email protected] or READER OFFER: Save £65 on a Vantage Vue Weather Station Search online and help raise vital 0800 091 0696. In the RoI? Get a fantastic deal on the Davis Vantage Vue Complete funds for the RNLI. Set Everyclick Donate 25–100% of the value 6250uk. This wireless weather station delivers a range of up as your homepage today. of your old mobile through information and its outdoor sensor sets www.everyclick.com/rnli. www.fonebank.ie/rnli up in minutes, sending data wirelessly or call (01) 442 9004. to the console anywhere in your home.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines RRP: £354 Book a selected Fred. Olsen Volvo Reader offer: £289 cruise and the RNLI receives You get a discount on a new car, (including VAT and UK mainland 15% of the price. See page 7 or the RNLI receives £500. carriage) Contact Steve Merchant visit www.rnli.org.uk/fredolsen Visit www.rnli.org.uk/volvo at [email protected] or call 02380 720 800 to find out more. or call 0845 680 1305.
Lifeboat Tea Which? Switch The RNLI gets 7p for every You could save money on your pack of the Lifeboat Tea range fuel bills and the RNLI receives sold. Available in leading £10–£20. www.which.co.uk/ supermarkets, independent switch/charity/rnli. stores and RNLI shops. Photo: Millard RNLI/Nigel 50 51
Turn unwanted shares into life savings Donating your shares to benefit the RNLI is easy. Call 01202 663070 or visit rnli.org.uk/sharegiving 52 THEN AND NOW A clearer picture
The RNLI’s Wreck Chart of the British Isles for 1854 (excerpt shown left) states: ‘Loss of life (as far as can be ascertained) 1,549.’ Two years earlier, the Lifeboat admitted that: ‘No complete record of shipwrecks is kept …’ but the quoted figures alone were enough to prove that a lifeboat service was an ‘absolute necessity’. The Victorian charts are wonderful pieces of work but, nowadays, the picture is a lot clearer. The RNLI collects data about every lifeboat and lifeguard incident and uses this information to identify trends. There’s been a huge shift in people taking to the water for leisure so, these days, merchant vessels are a smaller piece of the pie. The charity is also a key player in the Water Safety Forum, an association of organisations that has a range of interests in, and responsibilities for, water safety. Their data is combined in the Water Accident and Incident Database (WAID) to provide a unique view of all water-related incidents. This sort of detailed analysis helps the RNLI plan its service and to know what sort of money is needed to sustain the optimum level of lifesaving cover. With 2009 and 2010 being the two busiest years in the history of the RNLI, one thing is crystal clear: our volunteer crews and lifeguards are needed more than ever.
See page 4 to read more about the latest RNLI lifeboat and lifeguards statistics. See the complete set of wreck charts for yourself in the digital archive of the Lifeboat on PC DVD, priced £100. Call 01202 662254 to order your copy.
Words: Jon Jones