RNLI Aith Lifeboat Station holds gala event
On Sunday 3 June, RNLI Aith Lifeboat Station held their annual gala day. Although it was a cloudy day, this did not deter the crowds from turning out, and an enjoyable day was had by all who attended.
The day started with a parade, which was led by the local lifeboat crew, followed by the Jarl Squads from various local communities. This served to remind the public that the lifeboat is manned by volunteers, who are often out on the sea in rough conditions, helping vessels which are in difficulty. The crowds cheered as the parade went past, showing their support for the charity.
Surprise guests attending on the day were local Prince Harry and Megan (lookalikes) who were the stars of the show, delighting many of the visiting public with their detailed costumes, and royal manner.
Following this, there were many different activities on offer for children, such as the soft play, 3D virtual experience, and face painting. Adults could enjoy the whisky curling, teas, and also the Jarl Squad sports, which involved several local Jarl squad’s members competing in games such as tug of war, and pie eating. These events were watched by large crowds, with people shouting their support to their own local Jarl squad.
There was also plenty of food and snacks to be eaten, these included steak burgers from the barbeque, or teas and home bakes in the hall, and for children there was the candy floss, ice cream and fondue stalls.
A public auction was then held, where the lifeboat volunteer crew members donated items to be auctioned off to the general public. The bidding was fierce at times, as some items were quite unique, and therefore much in demand.
In the evening there was a GTL disco in the local hall, to finish off the event celebrations.
The organisers had put in a lot of time and effort to ensure that everyone had a wonderful day, and the total amount raised for the RNLI was £5808.76, which was gratefully received by the charity, which saves lives at sea.
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.
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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.