Gravesend lifeboat volunteer joins London Marathon runners fundraising for RNLI
John Robinson is one of more than 80 people who are set to take on the London Marathon on Sunday 21 April in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
John, who has been part of the volunteer Thames Crew at Gravesend lifeboat station for two years, said: ‘It's a great privilege to be running the London Marathon to raise money for the RNLI, and even more special as the Institution celebrates its 200th year anniversary.
‘I am looking forward to the challenge of a marathon. I have run a few half marathons as part of my training plan, so I have some idea what to expect, and I am sure the crowd and atmosphere of the event will power me on!’
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.
John added: ‘Good luck to all the other runners, see you on the finish line. You can donate to my RNLI Sponsorship page here: https://2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/john-robinson
RNLI Media contacts
For more information, please contact Helena Lane, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [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.