Laden Lifeboat Lasses complete their 1,500 mile cycle for the RNLI, in Minehead

The pair took on the challenge unsupported, just with their bikes and backpacks and are pit-stopping at campsites on the way.

Throughout July and August, the cycling duo ticked off as many lifeboat stations in Cornwall and Devon over a series of mini adventures, more of a trial for the main event – testing their equipment and fitness levels in preparation for the grand tour.

On 7 September, Kate and Beth set off on their 1,500-mile challenge from Poole Lifeboat Station around the south and east coast and up to towards Scarborough. From there they jumped on a train to Liverpool before heading down the west coast of Wales.

Unfortunately, with tightening restrictions in Wales, they have been forced to cut short their challenge and headed to Bristol at the weekend. From here they will cycle the stretch of the Somerset coast to Minehead where they will finish their challenge on Wednesday.

So far, they have raised a staggering £3,200 for the RNLI and have visited 88 lifeboat stations along the way.

Being very involved in an array of water sports activities, Kate and Beth are both passionate supporters of the RNLI and have a strong awareness of the dangers of the sea, whilst holding a healthy fear and respect for the water. Luckily, they have never needed the support of the RNLI, but are conscious that volunteers are on call every single day, just in case.

Kate says, ‘Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we were both furloughed, so we took the opportunity to take part in an adventure. We chose to support the RNLI with the aim to increase awareness of the charity and raise money for the volunteer lifeboat crews.

‘It has given us a purpose, something to plan for, train for and challenge ourselves. RNLI volunteers are still out there risking their lives for us, so what is it to us to make ourselves a little vulnerable and try doing something that scares us?

Kate concludes, ‘Thank you for anything that you can give to help this amazing charity. We are really grateful for your support – thank you for all the messages coming in, our bums and legs are grateful too!’

Kate and Beth have set up a Just Giving Fundraising Page where you can donate to support their challenge, plus they are writing a blog to document their journey.

Notes to editors

• To donate, please follow this link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lifeboatlasses
• Please find attached photos of Kate and Beth cycling, credit to Beth Barratt
• Stay up to date with their cycling route: https://ladenlifeboatlasses.wordpress.com/home/blog/

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.