Duke of Edinburgh student Ruairi takes to the water with Ramsey RNLI
King William’s College student Ruairi McNally has been taking part in the bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and spending his voluntary service time with Ramsey RNLI lifeboat.
During his time at the station he learnt about navigation, boat handling, shore-team support and experienced an acquaintance trip onboard Ramsey’s Mersey class all-weather lifeboat, the RNLB Ann & James Ritchie.
Ruairi’s training as a RNLI volunteer has come to an end but he has put together a small display of his experiences with Ramsey lifeboat, the RNLI charity and its lifesaving work. The display will be open to the public in the foyer of Ramsey Town Hall from Tuesday 7 August to Saturday 11 August.
Wayne Hargrave,Deputy Coxswain and training co-ordinator at Ramsey RNLI Station said: ‘It has been great to see Ruairi develop in confidence and his knowledge and experience grow during his time on station. He proved to be a useful and enthusiastic member of the team. He was involved in all aspects of training which gave him a first hand and realistic insight into the skills of our volunteer crew. All hands here at Ramsey RNLI wish him well with his future.’
Ruairi replied: ‘It has given me a hands-on experience with people who I live up to and admire for what they do. I am truly grateful that the lifeboat crew has welcomed me without a fuss. It has been a pleasure to work with such a lovely crew and gain experience like no other. It has given me experiences which cannot be gained anywhere else and I have loved every minute of my time volunteering with the RNLI. Thank you!’
Ramsey RNLI station participates in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme (DofE), although places are limited. If anyone is interested in getting involved they should get in contact via their school’s DofE co-ordinator.
Key facts about the RNLI
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 146,000 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
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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.