New Quay lifeboat Coxswain donates painting to RNLI

Daniel recently devoted his leisure time for several weeks creating the painting seen in the accompanying two pictures, which he has now donated to the RNLI for its fundraising efforts.

The picture shows the Frank and Lena Clifford of Stourbridge all-weather Mersey class lifeboat at the station speeding through storm force seas to assist a stricken trawler. Such experiences are familiar to Dan, who has a background as a local fisherman and 36 years of service on the lifeboat crew, the last 23 years as Coxswain.

Following discussions locally, it was decided that the picture should go to the RNLI Fundraising Branch in Stourbridge, who have close connections with the New Quay station dating from 1992 when a legacy from the Cliffords funded the allocation of the present all-weather lifeboat.

Stourbridge will in turn auction the painting at their forthcoming annual dinner when it is hoped that a substantial sum will be raised for the charity.

Daniel is very much a self taught artist with a little early tuition from an uncle who taught him to draw and an O Level in art.

He said: 'I have a great love of the sea and of New Quay. I am proud of my long service with the RNLI and my role as a local councillor. I find art a great way of relaxing and had real pleasure in painting this picture.'

Lifeboat Operations Manager at New Quay RNLI, Roger Couch, also commented: 'The sight of the all-weather lifeboat fighting its way through huge seas epitomises the spirit of Daniel and his crew who have carried out such services on countless occasions to save lives at sea.

'They are to be commended for their bravery and dedication. Daniel’s gesture in donating his painting to the RNLI is much appreciated.'

Notes to editors:

The attached pictures show New Quay RNLI Coxswain Daniel Potter with his painting of the Frank and Lena Clifford of Stourbridge, which will be auctioned to raise money for the Stourbridge RNLI Fundraising Branch. Credit RNLI/New Quay

New Quay RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1864. Today there are 25 trained crew members, a Mersey class all-weather lifeboat and an inshore rescue craft.

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