Portaferry RNLI receive donation after popular racing series comes to an end

The association was formed in the early 1970's with the aim of bringing clubs around Strangford Lough together to promote racing of cruising boats both in the Lough, and offshore.

The series of Sunday racing, usually held in September, encouraged the cooperation of clubs to provide a sociable and enjoyable series of races with every member of participating clubs welcome to take part.

Although popular for over 50 years, times have changed and due to the covid pandemic 'breaking the habit' of the late season series, the association who have donated to the RNLI almost annually in the past decade, have decided to close the accounts.

Portaferry RNLI fundraising guild chairperson, Pat Browne, said: 'We thank Gordon for making this donation on behalf of the SLRCA, and for taking the time to come over to our station.

'It is sad to see such a long-standing series of racing wound up, but we are sure it has brought much pleasure to generations of Strangford Lough sailors over the years.

'We thank all the clubs who have contributed to the association's accounts over the years for this donation. This money is vital and helps to keep our crew training and kit up to date enabling Portaferry RNLI to continue to save lives at sea on and around Strangford Lough.'

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Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Ireland, 087 648 3547, [email protected]

Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Ireland, 087 125 4124, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]

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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.

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