COWES RNLI CELEBRATES LIFE-SAVING VOLUNTEERS WITH SPECIAL PHOTO MOMENT

RNLI representatives from Cowes recently participated in a special photo moment – One Moment for One Crew – to create a photographic record of those involved with the lifesaving charity in this, its 200th anniversary year. The charity, which was founded in 1824, asked its volunteers and staff from around the UK and Ireland to take a photo of themselves, their crew or their team, at as close to 18:24 on 1st August 2024 (01.08.24) as possible. Representatives including lifeboat crews, lifeguards, fundraisers, shop volunteers, museum volunteers and staff from RNLI communities around the country have taken part. The photos have been uploaded to an online portal and will be used to create a montage image. Cowes RNLI station, including friends and family, managed to take their photo alongside Cowes Atlantic 85 Lifeboat, Sheena Louise, at precisely 18:24, among the hustle and bustle of Cowes week. Mark Southwell, Cowes RNLI Operations Manager, has said:

“When the RNLI announced the date and time last year my immediate reaction was ‘that’s a challenge – it’s Cowes Week!’ As it happened this worked well and all our cheery waving was acknowledged by the crowds on Cowes Parade – what a great way to celebrate 200 years of saving lives at sea.”

Earlier in the week, Cowes RNLI station celebrated its female volunteers by running a Ladies Launch exercise, in which everyone involved, from Launch Authority to shore crew, boat crew and even the press officer taking photos, was female. Anne Simkin, Cowes RNLI Launch Authority, said:

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“Cowes RNLI station is at the forefront of RNLI efforts to create an inclusive and diverse environment where volunteers of all backgrounds can contribute to saving lives at sea. I am so proud to have been part of that journey, and of the wonderful people who make up our station.”