Arnold Clark Autoparts donate to Troon RNLI
On Tuesday 1 June 2021, Evan Gallacher, Troon lifeboat stations mechanic, along with other members of the lifeboat crew responded to a callout, but when Evan returned to the station he discovered that his bike had been stolen.
Craig McCracken, Group Factor Manager at Arnold Clark Autoparts read about the story in the local Ayrshire press and knew the company could help Evan out. He arranged for a new bike to be delivered to him, fully kitted out with accessories and of course, a new bike lock.
Craig McCracken said, ‘The RNLI have saved thousands of lives over the years, providing an invaluable service often on a voluntary basis. Arnold Clark Autoparts have experienced strong bike sales in recent months, so we couldn't stand by and watch Evan lose out after being targeted while out potentially saving lives.'
'After talking to Evan and his colleagues, it became clear the cost of running a lifeboat station is massive and we were only too happy to make a donation. As lifeboat callouts are expected to increase as the UK holidays at home, Arnold Clark Autoparts felt it right that they donate £500 to the RNLI lifeboat station in Troon to help cover the huge costs they face to stay afloat.'
Evan Gallacher, Troon RNLI mechanic said; ‘It was very disappointing to return to the lifeboat station to find that my bike had been taken while I was at sea on the lifeboat. My thanks go to Craig McCracken from Arnold Clark Autoparts for providing me with a fantastic new bike to use for callouts and while at work around the harbour.'
‘On behalf of the RNLI in Troon, I would also like to thank Arnold Clark Autoparts for the donation of £500 to the RNLI. Following a difficult year for our fundraisers this donation is very much appreciated and will help us to continue to save lives at sea’
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
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.