Today (15 May 2024) four members of Harwich RNLI’s ‘One Crew’ had the honour of signing the commemorative scroll that is travelling through every RNLI region and country throughout 2024.
This significant event is part of the RNLI’s 200th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the charity’s enduring commitment to saving lives at sea.
The scroll, which carries the RNLI’s One Crew pledge, promises unwavering dedication to saving lives without judgment, echoing the vision of Sir William Hillary, who founded the RNLI in 1824. The scroll began its journey on 4 March 2024, during a Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey and will travel across the UK and Ireland, culminating in Douglas, Isle of Man, in October 2024 – the former home of Sir William Hillary.
The commemorative scroll is more than a document; it symbolises the unity and commitment of RNLI crews and supporters across all regions. This initiative, titled 'Connecting our Communities', aims to bring together RNLI’s extensive network, fostering a shared sense of purpose and honouring two centuries of lifesaving service.
In partnership with Ford, the scroll’s journey is being facilitated by an all-electric Ford E-Transit, underscoring the RNLI’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. This environmentally friendly vehicle will transport the scroll to RNLI stations and communities, ensuring that the legacy of lifesaving continues with a minimal carbon footprint.
Today’s signing at Harwich RNLI is a proud moment for the local crew and community. The four members who signed the scroll – Ann Brand, Shop Manager; Ken Kirby, Water Safety; Mike Doogan, Visits; and Di Bush, Coxswain – embody the bravery, dedication, and unity that define the RNLI’s One Crew ethos.
Notes to Editor
The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Harwich RNLI is based on The Quay, Harwich. The lifeboat station was founded in 1829 and the volunteer crew use an all-weather Severn class lifeboat (ALB) the
Albert Brown and B class lifeboat (ILB) Tierney, Harvey and Sonny Reid.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact Adam Prescott, volunteer RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer 07881 286312 [email protected] or Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Communications Manager (North and East) [email protected]
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.
