Inflatable Giraffe and Zebra fundraiser for Hartlepool RNLI

Fundraiser Heather Waugh who wore an inflatable giraffe outfit and is originally from Durban, South Africa said " My husband Garry is station mechanic at the Hartlepool RNLI lifeboat station and I'm very proud of him and the volunteers who go to sea in all weathers to help save lives at sea and I've always wanted to take part in the dip so this was the perfect opportunity but I must admit it's a lot colder here than back home in Durban but it was great taking part in the event and I must say thank you to everyone who sponsored me and my friend Ben Oliver who was dressed as a Zebra."
Hartlepool RNLI Lifeboats Operations Manager Chris Hornsey said "Seeing a giraffe and a Zebra wading into the sea was one of the strangest things I've seen this year but we are very grateful as a charity for their support and the many others who were fundraising for us at the Round Table event."

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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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.