Legacy comes as a welcome boost for Pwllheli RNLI

The RNLI received the donation thanks to a legacy from Gerald Le Mesurier David who wanted a lasting memory to be created in honour of his sister Zoe Le Mesurier David, who was a great supporter of the RNLI.

Mr David was born just before the Second World War in the village of Peterston-Super-Ely just outside Cardiff. His father was in fact born in Pwllheli, so his family say he would have been delighted the gift was being used in the town.

Gerald was one of eight children and left school at the age of 14 and worked as a farm hand and then in later years as a builder in the village. He remained in the village throughout his life and become one of its longest living residents.

Executor Anthony Mayled, Mr David’s nephew hails from Chester. He says Pwllheli is a location close to his heart:

‘Zoe always was a great supporter of the RNLI and it therefore did not surprise me of the generosity Gerald exhibited by leaving a legacy to the RNLI in memory of his sister. After Gerald passed away I found out his father was born in Pwllheli, so it seems appropriate to ensure the legacy went towards the new boathouse at Pwllheli. He was an extremely genuine and generous man and I know that he would have approved.’

Building work at the Glan y Don site is nearing completion. A special plaque will be displayed in memory of Zoe Le Mesurier David.

Cliff Thomas, RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager at Pwllheli says:

‘During these challenging times, this kind gesture is more appreciated than ever before. As a charity which relies on voluntary contributions and legacies for income, we are so very grateful for this wonderful gift. The volunteer crew at Pwllheli will have a wonderfully equipped, purpose built changing room which will be a lasting tribute to Zoe Le Mesurier David.’

The community £100,000 appeal towards the modern new facility is still going strong, currently standing at just over £62,000 It is hoped the community continue to dig deep to support the fundraising drive.

The new boathouse will be located next to Plas Heli, on the opposite side to the river to the present boathouse, which has served Pwllheli lifeboats for over 120 years. Along with the Shannon class lifeboat and its associated launch and recovery vehicle, the D-Class Robert J Wright will also be housed at the new station.

Together with new and improved facilities for the volunteer crew members, the boathouse will include a souvenir outlet and a public engagement area for the public to view and learn about the lifeboat.

Those wishing for further information or to be involved with regards to supporting the appeal, may do so be sending a cheque FAO Delyth Davies payable to the RNLI Pwllheli Lifeboat Station Appeal.

Alternatively, fundraisers have launched an exciting new opportunity to purchase a brick on the new commemorative wall at the entrance to the station. Each brick will be engraved with usually a name, with a minimum donation of £50 per brick towards the station’s appeal. For more information contact Charlie on [email protected] or via mobile 07780608099.

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Danielle Rush, RNLI Media Relations Manager for Wales and the West on 07786 668829 [email protected]

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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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.