Longhope RNLI celebrates the charity's 200th anniversary

'As Longhope RNLI commemorates its 150th anniversary and the RNLI marks 200 years of lifesaving efforts, it's essential to recognise that every rescue is the result of a unified team effort. Beyond the images of lifeboats and courageous crews, there's a network of dedicated individuals and a meticulous process at work. Together, we stand as #onecrew'

On 5 July 2022, the calm across the islands of Hoy and Walls was abruptly shattered by the sound of pager alarms echoing throughout the homes of RNLI volunteers.

This urgent call to action prompted crew members to drop everything and rush to their vehicles with a singular purpose: to embark on a critical rescue mission. A mere ten minutes after the alarm was raised, the lifeboat was launched, slicing through the waters towards a passenger ferry in distress. The ferry, carrying 51 souls, including children, had found itself perilously run aground with the safety of all aboard hanging in the balance.

One can only imagine the relief they felt at the arrival of the lifeboat, whose volunteer crew successfully transferred all passengers to safety.

The essence of any RNLI rescue operation was beautifully summed up by Mr. Andy Trafford (Headmaster, North Walls Primary School) who, in his opening speech at the Longhope RNLI Bazaar in November 2023, highlighted that the final rescue is only the last link in a long chain of effort and support that makes the rescue possible.

Now celebrating its 150th anniversary, Longhope RNLI has played an integral part in the history and identity of the island community, with the first lifeboat station being established in 1874. Since then, the station has played a crucial role in providing lifesaving services in the treacherous waters around the Orkney Islands and boasts a long history of bravery, dedication and sacrifice.

This is most notably remembered by the 1969 tragedy when, having responded to a distress call, the lifeboat launched into the Pentland Firth in treacherous conditions, with gale-force winds and massive waves. Tragically, the lifeboat was capsized by the enormous seas, and all eight brave crew members were lost. That loss continues to be felt by the families of the crew and the wider community.

Despite, or maybe because of, such tragedy Longhope RNLI continues to thrive and, uniquely, has a history of generations of lifesavers from various families serving within its ranks. It currently boasts a dedicated team of two full-time staff and numerous volunteers who selflessly give up their time, to support the station. But this is only one part of the story because at the heart of the RNLI's successful lifesaving mission lies a meticulously woven chain, where each link plays a crucial role in every rescue.

Take, for instance, our state-of-the-art Tamar-class lifeboat, RNLB Helen Comrie. With her self-righting capability and cutting-edge navigation systems, she is a shining example of our first-class equipment. But such excellent examples of equipment aren't simply plucked from the sea air; they're funded by the generosity of donations which is where the dedicated folks of fundraising groups, like the Longhope Lifeboat Guild, step in, tirelessly drumming up support and funds. Their efforts ensure the necessary resources are available to purchase and maintain this vital equipment.

Yet, what is advanced equipment without skilled hands to operate and care for it? Training is paramount, transforming raw talent into seasoned expertise, capable of navigating perilous waters and making split-second decisions. This expertise is not inherited; it's built through rigorous training programs funded by the same lifeline of donations.

The local community breathes life into this chain, stepping forward as crew members, organising, and participating in fundraising events, and spreading the word of the RNLI's cause. Furthermore, behind every crew member stands a family, the unsung heroes who share their loved ones with the sea, understanding the call of duty that often interrupts family time, holidays, and special moments. Their support is the bedrock upon which the willingness to serve is built, enabling crew members to head out to sea, knowing their loved ones stand with them.

This intricate web of equipment, funding, training, community involvement, awareness-raising and family support forms the RNLI's chain of survival. It stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when people unite under a common goal: to save lives at sea. Each link in the chain is vital, each role valued as, together, they forge the spirit of hope and resilience that defines the RNLI.

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.