
Scroll signing, swimmers and sand art: an historic day for Cullercoats RNLI
Saturday saw the continuation of Cullercoats RNLI’s 200th anniversary celebrations, with a commemorative scroll arriving in the village.
The scroll is travelling relay-style between lifeboat stations, with volunteers from each invited to sign and commit to continuing to save lives at sea.
The pledge reads: ‘Whoever we are, wherever we are from, we are one crew, ready to save lives. We’re powered by passion, talent and kindness, like generations of selfless lifesavers before us. This is our watch, we lead the way, valuing each other, trusting each other, depending on one another, volunteering to face the storm together. Knowing that, with courage, nothing is impossible. That is what has always driven us to save every one we can. It's what makes every one of us a lifesaver.’
In recognition of this momentous occasion, open water swimmers were encouraged to gather in Cullercoats Bay for the arrival of the scroll, where local sand artist Rob Williams and wife Maxine had drawn out ‘RNLI 200’, before the swimmers gathered firstly on the beach then in the water to create a spectacular arrangement when observed from the air.
Around 100 swimmers bravely took to the chilly water, joining hands to create a circle that represented community, solidarity and support for the RNLI’s lifesaving mission.
Cullercoats RNLI’s Chair of Fundraising David Darlington said: 'Cullercoats Bay was the place to be this weekend! We hosted an unforgettable cold-water dip to mark the RNLI’s 200th anniversary and what a turnout! Around 100 dippers of all ages braved the chill, creating memories (and goosebumps!) that will last a lifetime. Between the stunning sand art, the breath-taking aerial shot of our human circle and the incredible generosity of our community we raised over £500 for the RNLI. Thank you to every single person who helped make this event a success and we look forward to welcoming our community from near and far to our harbour day on Saturday 20 July.'
The scroll was signed by representatives of the Cullercoats boat crew, fundraising and water safety teams and will continue its journey north next week.
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For more information, please contact Sarah Whitelaw, RNLI volunteer lifeboat press officer: [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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