Littlehampton RNLI lifeboat station closes to public as coronavirus precaution

The RNLI is following UK government recommendations to reduce the risk of exposure of RNLI staff and volunteers to coronavirus.

As a result, group visits to Littlehampton RNLI lifeboat station will be postponed until a later date and its shop will be closed. The boathouse will not be open to casual visitors.

Nick White, Littlehampton RNLI's Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: 'As an organisation that very much appreciates the enormous support that it receives and customarily welcomes visitors, this action is regretted, but in line with the need to minimise the risk of spreading the coronavirus infection.

'Our lifeboats remain on service and will respond to tasking requests as usual. Training for our crew continues, but with extra precautions in place. In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.'

ENDS

RNLI media contacts

Beth Brooks, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Littlehampton RNLI 0754 209256 [email protected]

Paul Dunt, Regional Media Officer, London and South East 07785 296252 [email protected]

For enquiries outside normal business hours contact the RNLI duty press officer on 01202 336789

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 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.