Montrose RNLI volunteer and brother take on epic rally challenge to Venice

The rally, which takes place from 5-9 September 2026, is designed as a challenge of endurance, navigation, and teamwork, with teams responsible for planning their own route between checkpoints while taking in mountain passes, historic cities and world-famous driving roads along the way.

In keeping with the spirit of the Motoscape Rally, the duo have now purchased and begun preparing their rally car - a Mini - traditionally costing £999 or less or around 20 years old, adding an extra layer of adventure to the challenge. The lifeboat crew at the station have already joked that the biggest test may be whether the car itself makes it all the way to Venice.

Fortunately, Kyle works as a mechanic in his day job, while Craig earns his living as a lorry driver, meaning between them they are hopeful they can keep their rally motor running smoothly throughout the journey - or at least coax it across the finish line.

Kyle said: 'Taking part in the rally with my brother is something we’ve talked about for a while, and doing it to support the RNLI makes it even more special. It’s going to be a long journey across Europe, but we’re ready for the challenge.'

Craig added: 'With my driving experience and Kyle’s mechanical know-how, we’re quietly confident we’ll get there - although the car might have other ideas! Either way, we’re determined to raise as much as we can for an incredible charity.'

All funds raised by Kyle and Craig will support the RNLI’s lifesaving work around the coasts of the UK and Ireland, carried out by volunteers like Kyle at stations including Montrose.

How to support Kyle and Craig

Kyle and Craig are asking for the support of the local community, friends and family to help them reach their fundraising target for the RNLI. Donations of any size will help the charity continue saving lives at sea.

Donate via JustGiving:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/kyle-craigrobertson?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok 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.