Writer recognised for fundraising efforts

In November last year, writer, actor and comedian Jim Moir, better known as Vic Reeves undertook a speed sketching session at the Don’t Walk, Walk Gallery in Deal were he raised £959.06, the latest in a number of fundraising initiatives he has held in aid of the RNLI and Walmer lifeboat. In recognition of these achievements, Jim, accompanied by his wife, the actress and model Nancy Sorrell and one of his daughters, Lizzie, who have visited the station previously, attended on Saturday, 22 August, to receive the Record of Thanks from the Institution.

Walmer crew member Steve Emptage, who has met the family on a number of occasions presented the award said, ‘We are proud as a station of Jim’s continued association with Walmer.’ For his part, Jim said he was ‘really chuffed’ with the certificate and presented the station with a painting of their former lifeboat Hampshire Rose to be displayed in the boathouse.

Notes to editors

Walmer lifeboat station was established in1856.

It currently operates two inshore lifeboats – a B Class Atlantic 85 Donald McLauchlan and a smaller D Class Duggie Rodbard II.

Crews have received 28 Awards for Gallantry

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 over 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and, in a normal year, 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 142,700 lives.

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.