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Local community raises £4000 for Aberdeen RNLI at annual open day

Lifeboats News Release

The local community came together in support of RNLI Aberdeen at its annual open day on August 20th 2023, raising £4000 to fund the charity's lifesaving work in the city.

Emergency services take part in RNLI Aberdeen open day

RNLI/Jamee Kirkpatrick

Emergency services take part in RNLI Aberdeen open day

Attendees enjoyed an exciting array of activities, including rare tours of all weather lifeboat, Bon Accord, and inshore lifeboat, Buoy Woody 85N. Led by knowledgeable RNLI volunteer crew members, participants gained unique insights into the inner workings of these vital vessels that save lives at sea 24/7, 365 days a year.

Collaboration took centre stage at the event, with volunteer and government emergency services joining forces. Participants included the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Aberdeen Mountain Rescue Team, Scottish Ambulance Service, Police Scotland, Stonehaven RNLI and HM Coastguard Aberdeen. Their presence allowed the public to explore emergency vehicles and learn more about their essential work.

Aberdeen RNLI commented: "Our open day is a reminder of the daily efforts by charities and government agencies to safeguard our community. This event offers a rare and unique opportunity for the public to meet those who dedicate their time to saving lives and protecting their local communities."

Established in 1802 and later taken under RNLI control at request of the Harbour Commissioners in 1925, Aberdeen lifeboat station has long been a beacon of safety along the coastline. Staffed by dedicated volunteers in onshore and offshore roles, including crew, operations and fundraising, the station's commitment to the local area and its communities is unwavering.

Highlighting the power of community support, the open day raised £4000 through generous donations, a crew-operated BBQ, RNLI merchandise sales, a tombola and raffle, and a tempting bake sale.

RNLI Aberdeen added: “Our open day showcases unity, education and community spirit. This event underscored the pivotal role of volunteers and the significant impact of public support, reaffirming the RNLI's steadfast dedication to saving lives at sea. We are so grateful to everyone who attended, donated and who continue to help us to serve the local community!”

For more details about RNLI Aberdeen and its initiatives, visit https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/aberdeen-lifeboat-station/.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.