RNLI to support the Lewes Bonfire Celebrations

Although the charity’s lifeboats are more often seen around the coast of Sussex, the RNLI has worked closely with other local agencies to reduce the risk of injury to the estimated 60,000 people who will pack the town to watch the Lewes Bonfire Societies march through the streets.

The charity's inshore lifeboat is on loan for the night and will patrol the River Ouse with two RNLI crew on board and one from ESFRS. The boat will launch at 6pm and the crew will stay on duty until 6am the next morning, ready to respond to anyone who finds themselves in difficulty in or by the water. The inshore lifeboat is specially designed to operate in shallower waters and to be highly manoeuvrable around the shoreline and river banks.

Martin Blaker, Area Lifesaving Manager for the RNLI, said, 'The Lewes Bonfire Night Celebrations are a huge event in the local calendar and if we are able to contribute to people’s safety, and help prevent drowning, we’re happy to lend our support.

'We’d encourage everyone attending to wrap up warm, and to remember that alcohol and water don’t mix so please take care near the river. With so many people in the town, the emergency services will be at full stretch trying to keep everyone safe so look after yourself and your friends, and have a great night.'

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.