RNLI lifeguards prepare for Aberporth Raft Race

RNLI lifeguards are gearing up to help support local fundraisers as the Aberporth Raft Race returns to Ceredigion on Sunday 26 August.

RNLI lifeguards will be split into two teams during the fun day; the charity’s lifeguards will help provide safety cover at the popular village event, as well as off-duty lifeguards entering their own homemade raft to try and claim the top place and to be titles captains of the sea.

The Aberporth Raft Race was first held on the Ceredigion beach last year as the local community and holidaymakers joined together to compete in a friendly race within the bay.  The fun day event, organised by Gilly Llewelyn and Lynne Box along with members of the Aberporth fundraising group, raised a £1000 for the RNLI and local charities in 2011, but the team hope to double the amount next weekend.

Gilly, organiser of the event said:

‘The Raft Race was great fun last year as various teams and individuals entered the race with all kinds of fun and wacky decorated rafts. We’ve already received application forms ready for the race and we expect even more to turn up on the day.

‘There’s no limit of participant per raft, however they must be safe.  Each form of transport for the competition will be inspected by Elin Jones, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor before the race to ensure that each craft is safe and sea-worthy.’

As well as pirate themed races, bbq and competitions, there will be plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained throughout the day as the community help raise funds for the RNLI. 

Dylan Jones, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor said:

‘The Aberporth Raft Race was a great success last year as people of all ages joined together for a great day out as well as help raise funds for the RNLI - a respected charity that’s so important for towns and villages across the coast.’

For more information of the Aberporth Raft Race Day please contact Gilly Llewelyn or Lynne Box at The Ship Inn, Tresaith.

Notes to editor
Attached is a photo of RNLI lifeguards with Gilly Llewelyn, organiser of the Aberporth Raft Race.

RNLI media contact
For more information contact Eleri Davies, RNLI Press Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or e-mail Eleri_davies@rnli.org.uk.