Withernsea RNLI has held its anniversary celebration since the return of the lifeboat service to the community.
The event, held at the Northfield, was attended by more than 150 guests and featured a range of activities to honour the station’s history and those involved in its mission to save lives at sea.
The evening began at 5pm with Darren Hickey, lifeboat operations manager, offering a warm welcome to all guests. Shortly afterwards, Laurie, a supporter of the RNLI, shared a heartfelt donation and explained what the organisation meant to him.
Paul Baker, lifeboat heritage officer and management chairman, then reflected on his time with the RNLI and highlighted the lifeboat’s reintroduction to Withernsea and the many rescues conducted over the years. Shortly after, guests enjoyed sea shanties and The Lifeboat Song, an original piece by ex-crewman Kenny Fowler, performed by Kenny and Kevin Young.
Father Gary Donegan, who had travelled from Northern Ireland to attend, spoke on the role of Withernsea RNLI during the Kegworth air disaster, paid tribute to the late operations manager Steve Medcalf, and shared his connection with Withernsea.
The evening featured a pie and peas supper and entertainment from the band BareFaced, followed by a raffle and auction, the highlight of which was a bid of £550 for a Tiger Moth flight experience. DJ Paul Ashworth rounded out the evening, “keeping the energy alive until the end.”
A spokesman said: “The evening would not have been possible without the hard work of the Northfield staff. Thank you all for an unforgettable night.”
Meanwhile, Withernsea RNLI is now actively seeking volunteer sea-going crew members from the town and nearby villages to join its dedicated team.
Applicants should be over 18, physically fit and ready to respond quickly in emergencies. Previous experience is not required, as all necessary training will be provided, along with opportunities to gain valuable qualifications.
Those interested in making a difference by saving lives at sea are encouraged to contact RNLI Withernsea for more information. Call 01964 613686, email [email protected] or message via Facebook.
“Withernsea needs you to help save lives at sea,” the spokesman added.