RNLI in Orkney thank those involved in Big Skiff Excursion 2023

The event began on Friday 9 June, with boat crew departing from Kirkwall, and the crew aimed to complete a 90-nautical-mile sail around Mainland Orkney, arriving back in Kirkwall on Saturday 10 June. However, due to the conditions, the crew had to resort to a small tow.

Members of the highly experienced crew included Longhope RNLI's deputy Coxswain, Angus Budge, and Regional Resilience Coxswain, Darren Harcus.

The skiff Ella was beautifully restored during the Covid-19 pandemic by Sam Harcus. Sam was also the individual who instigated this exiting excursion.

The team hoped to raise £750 for the three RNLI lifeboat stations, but have raised £4,300 on their fundraising page so far.

To find out more, visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/skifftrip23?utm_term=rX78M9nj6

Notes to editors

• Longhope lifeboat station has been operating since 1874. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/longhope-lifeboat-station

• Kirkwall lifeboat station has been operating since 1972. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/kirkwall-lifeboat-station
• Stromness lifeboat station has been operating since 1867. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/stromness-lifeboat-station

RNLI media contacts

Charlie Derra, Lifeboat Press Officer at Kirkwall RNLI, [email protected]

Richard Clubley, Lifeboat Press Officer, [email protected]

Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

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

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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.