School science technician running London Marathon for Scarborough RNLI

Mel a science technician from Scarborough College, is taking on the 26.2 mile challenge within the charity’s 200^th anniversary year, Scarborough RNLI is delighted to have her support. The idea of running the London Marathon for the RNLI came to Mel after hearing of an inspiring rescue.

Mel said: ‘My friend within my running club was rescued last January by the Scarborough crew. With living by the coast I’ve always known the importance of the RNLI, so as a little thank you I have chosen to fundraise for them.’

Her friend was a competent sea swimmer but found himself caught out by strong currents that changed very quickly. He remembered RNLI water safety advice and went into a starfish shape to float on his back. While a friend ashore called 999 and asked for the Coastguard.

Mel secured her place for the London Marathon through her running team, Scarborough Athletics Club. She has now already surpassed her fundraising goal £250 and is now over £600. Mel said: ‘Running comes with such a supportive community, the people you meet are amazing. I am appreciative of everyone that has donated and followed my training journey so far.’ You can read more about Mel’s fundraising efforts and support Mel on her JustGiving Page.

Jayne George, RNLI Fundraising Director, said: ‘We are so thankful to all our RNLI runners taking on this year’s London Marathon. It is a massive challenge and we will be cheering them towards the finish line on race day.

‘The route takes runners near the City of London Tavern in Bishopsgate, where on 4 March 1824, our founder Sir William Hillary’s vision for a service dedicated to saving lives at sea became a reality.

‘200 years later, RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews and beach lifeguards have saved more than 146,000 lives but this is only possible thanks to generous donations and selfless supporters like our marathon runners along with all those who have contributed to their incredible fundraising efforts. Thank you, your kindness means so much to us. Every one of you is a lifesaver.’

Last year, 89 runners tackled the gruelling 26 mile challenge for the RNLI, raising a staggering £161,234.53

For those not running the marathon, the RNLI is urging the public to take part in the Mayday Mile fundraiser – taking on the challenge of covering a mile a day for the month of May. All money raised will help to provide the vital training and equipment that is needed to keep its lifesavers ready to answer the call to rescue.

The Mayday Mile takes place from Wednesday 1 May to Friday 31 May. Sign up and find out more at RNLI.org/SupportMayday.

RNLI Media contacts
For more information, please contact Lauren Wright, RNLI Media Engagement Placement, North East and East: [email protected]

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.