Elite Marine Services duo tackle Coast to Coast challenge for the RNLI

Lewis and Steve will be enduring the autumn seas onboard an inflatable catamaran, Thundercats. They will be setting off from Plymouth (Mayflower Steps) at 10am and aim to reach Newquay the same day, 120 miles later. They will have a safety support RIB alongside them to help with fuel and in case of emergency.

The pair, who run their own marine engineering business in Plymouth, Devon, have always wanted to complete this passage and are eager to raise money and increase awareness for the RNLI.

This weekend, (Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September) 10am – 4pm, Elite Racing will have a stall set up at Plymouth Barbican (beside Commercial Wharf slipway) showcasing their event, plus a raffle draw with excellent prizes all in aid of the RNLI.

Lewis and Steve founded their marine engineering business two years ago and have been building their reputation, specialising in electrical and mechanical repairs, as well as installation from small leisure boats to large commercial vessels.

Being keen water sports enthusiasts, Lewis and Steve, both 33 and based in Plymouth, are under no illusion that the seas may be wild and the winds strong especially on the cusp of winter, making it a very challenging trip in a 4-metre inflatable Catamaran.

Lewis says, ‘We've raced our boat Thundercats since 2016 with numerous podiums and titles. The sport has taken us around the world racing in Gibraltar, Sri Lanka, Dublin and last year the incredible Maldives where we represented the UK in their first ever international powerboat race – we’re excited for our next challenge.’

Ellie Walker, RNLI Community Manager says, ‘It’s been a very difficult and challenging year for RNLI fundraising. I’m delighted that Elite Marine Services Plymouth have chosen to support the RNLI and attempt this non-stop journey from Plymouth to Newquay.

‘We need supporters now more than ever – our crews have continued to operate and save lives throughout this pandemic. Your kindness and support will help our teams stay ready to answer the call for help.’

Notes to editors

• Please find attached photos of Lewis and Steve, credit to Elite Marine Services
• To donate please follow this link: https://paypal.me/pools/c/8rReCBWHTo
• Facebook event: https://facebook.com/events/s/coast-to-coast-charity-fundrai/327083238432921/?ti=as

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Becky Bright, Regional Media Engagement Placement on [email protected] or 07375855897, or Amy Caldwell, Regional Media Manager on [email protected] or 07920818807, or RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or via [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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For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.