The September sun shone down on current and past crews, their families and friends and crew from flanking search and rescue services including Cowes RNLI and Freshwater Independent Lifeboat at Yarmouth Sailing Club, where
A party was thrown to mark an incredible 100 years of lifesaving by Yarmouth RNLI last month, with current and past crews, their families and crew from flanking search and rescue services attending.
People of all ages and from all walks of life shared stories, laughed together and came together at Yarmouth Sailing Club to watch Station President Dame Ellen MacArthur unveil the official acknowledgement from the RNLI, which was signed by the former chief executive Mark Dowie.
Dame Ellen MacArthur then presented the framed letter to Lifeboat Operations Manager, Tom Carlstedt-Duke, who proudly accepted on behalf of Yarmouth Station in front of Yarmouth’s current Severn-class RNLI lifeboat, ‘Wanderer’ who for the day was moored pride of place opposite the sailing club, decorated in dress flags and golden balloons.
In his speech, Tom said:
“The RNLI refers a lot these days to ‘One Crew’ by which they mean not just the visible crew who man the lifeboat when it goes out on a shout, but also the other volunteers who work to make this possible, and it is good to see some of them here today as they are all part of Yarmouth Lifeboat Station.”
After the speeches, including one by local historian Kevin Shaw who shared lots of history of Yarmouth RNLI since 1924 including notable medals and achievements, guests were treated to a BBQ which included food that had been kindly donated by several island businesses whilst listening to the beautiful vocals of local musician, Romy Helen who entertained everyone throughout the day.
Senior Station Technician, Richard Pimm had worked tirelessly over the last few months to organise the event and had even compiled a large showcase of photos and newspaper clippings from over the years which included photos of several RNLI lifeboats that had been based at Yarmouth and past and present crew, all of which sparked the most wonderful conversations between guests who reminisced about their time as crew.
Thanks is to be given to The Bugle Coaching Inn, Adrian at The Wheatsheaf of Yarmouth, Northwood House of Cowes, The Royal Solent Yacht Club, all the team at Yarmouth Sailing Club, Kevin Hall who helped with the catering for the event, Yarmouth Harbour who opened the Yar Bridge especially for us twice during the day and several local businesses including the Isle of Wight Tomato Company, Coast and Country and Medina Food Service.
If you’re interested in a volunteering opportunity at Yarmouth Lifeboat Station, email [email protected]
