Penlee’s old lifeboat station will open its doors to the public this summer
Across four different dates this year, volunteers at the old Penlee RNLI lifeboat station will open the doors to members of the public four decades after the loss of the Solomon Browne lifeboat and her crew on 19 December 1981.
Untouched for forty years, visitors can experience the station’s unique and emotional atmosphere and learn about the the former RNLI lifeboat station’s history which is now being preserved for the nation after the building was awarded Grade 2 listed status earlier this year.
On 19 December 1981, the crew of the Penlee lifeboat Solomon Browne were lost attempting to rescue the crew and passengers onboard a stricken coaster the MV Union Star. Tragically the volunteer crew of the lifeboat and the crew and family of the captain of the Union Star were all lost. The disaster was the last time the RNLI lost an entire crew in action. In 1983 the station was moved to Newlyn to accommodate the new, larger Arun class lifeboat, as a mark of respect, once the lifeboat station closed, the buildings were kept much as they were on 19 December 1981.
Andy Bramwell, RNLI Community Manager, said; ‘Penlee’s old lifeboat station is an iconic part of Cornish history and I’m delighted we can open its doors to visitors on four days this year. I’d like to thank the volunteers, crew and community of Penlee lifeboat for making this happen. The building echoes with the loss of the Solomon Browne and her crew and you can’t help but feel admiration, respect and pride after a visit.
‘I’d encourage the public to arrive early if they want to visit, as we have to limit the number of people in the building at any one time. The steps down are narrow and steep and please bear in mind that there are no toilet facilities or parking, so I’d suggest walking from Mousehole.’
RNLI volunteers at the old station will welcome visitors on four special dates during the next few months, with the first taking place on Sunday 28 May, followed by 25 June, 30 July and 28 August. Opening from 11am to 3pm on these dates (last entry at 2:30pm) and with free entry, this is a unique opportunity to step back in time and discover the inspiring hard work and dedication of the selfless RNLI crew members from four decades ago.
Notes to editors
· Photos of Penlee RNLI old lifeboat station. (Credit Nicholas Leach, RNLI)
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