Yesterday marked the 200th anniversary of the RNLI.
Over the 200 years of service, the RNLI has grown into a major operation with 238 lifeboat stations operating in the UK and Ireland.
The service currently operates three stations in Merseyside, operating lifeboats from New Brighton, Hoylake and West Kirby.
I spoke to a crew member at the New Brighton lifeboat station and asked them about the significance of the 200 years and where the RNLI will be moving forward.
He said: “We’re here to commemorate all the volunteers and the crews that have come before as the people who paved the way for the modern day crews. It’s also a day to celebrate our fundraisers and all the people behind the scenes that make it a reality and also hopefully to inspire the next generation of life savers as well.”
“I caught a glimpse of the lifeboat and that’s what inspired me to look into it and get involved and if we can do the same today for some people on the shore.”
“Whether they become future crew, fundraisers, shop volunteers or water teams, we’re all part of one crew here and hopefully we inspire the next generation.”
Featured image: Jake Hughes
