Sponsored splash raises cash for Largs RNLI.

The group of experienced open water swimmers completed a coastal swim from Largs Marina to The Green Shutters, a distance of around 2.5km, whilst the youths rowed a relay back and forth, for a distance of around 10km.

All funds raised at this event are being split between the RNLI and the Firth Of Clyde Coastal Rowers - who will use any funds raised to contribute to kit and to support the young people to represent their club and Largs at the Skiffie World Championships in Holland in June 2022.

Due to the weather conditions running up to the event, the group had many discussions about whether the event should go ahead as planned. Fortunately on the day the weather improved and the rowers and swimmers were comfortable to proceed.

A safety briefing was held and it was ensured the necessary precautions were taken. Rowers had appropriate lifejackets, the boats both had means of communication, with each other and the coastguard and carried first aid kits. Swimmers had appropriate clothing and floats. There were also spotters onshore and kit to warm the swimmers if required.

Volunteer crew member Steven Kemp took part in this event, and other volunteer crew members from Largs RNLI attended the start and end of the event, joining friends and family to cheer on the swimmers and rowers in their challenge.

All six of the swimmers reported challenging conditions, but made good time and all thoroughly enjoyed their swim.

Steven Kemp, crew member at Largs RNLI, said: ‘I really enjoy being part of the volunteer lifeboat crew at Largs, but I am all too aware about how much it costs for our kit, training and launching the lifeboat. It was nice to be able to help raise money to contribute towards this.

‘It is fantastic Largs have such a good junior rowing program and giving the juniors the opportunity to complete on a worldwide platform is amazing.

‘Safety during this event was a priority, and all of those taking part had the correct safety equipment and were fully prepared for the event.

‘In a coastal emergency always dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.’

If you would like to sponsor the swimmers and youth rowers you can do so via the following link, all funds raised are split between the Firth Of Clyde Coastal Rowers and the RNLI, https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/rnlifoccrs

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.