Blue House students from The Bay CE School have officially unveiled ‘Sandy McPuller’, the newly named lifeboat tractor at Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat, after raising over £1,200 through a school fundraiser.
Last Friday (13th June), students visited the lifeboat station to reveal the name and see firsthand how their efforts will contribute to saving lives off the coast of the Isle of Wight.
Back in October 2024, Blue House organised a Community Day packed with activities including a mufti day, quiz, pick n mix shop, and a mini marathon. The day raised an impressive total of £1,216.39, which was presented to the lifeboat team during a previous visit.
The students were treated to a tour of the lifeboat station, a demonstration ride in the lifeboat being pulled by the newly named tractor, and a chance to learn more about the life-saving operations supported by their donation.
A memorable moment came when the group met crew member Kirren, a former student and Blue House Captain, who joined the lifeboat crew after a similar school visit more than a decade ago.
Gareth Bricknell, Head of Blue House, has said:
“We’re so proud of our Blue House students for their community spirit, creativity, and support for such a vital local service. Blue House are already looking ahead to their next Community Day in October 2025 to raise funds for the new lifeboat station building.”
Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat expressed their gratitude to the school, noting the importance of local fundraising in keeping their volunteer-led service running.
Would have been nice if the name was central! But well done to Blue House at Bay CE School.