
Withernsea RNLI celebrates 50 years and RNLI Bicentennial
On Saturday 15 June, Withernsea RNLI celebrated a significant milestone, 2024 sees the 50th anniversary of their return to the town, which coincides with the bicentennial of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
The event took place in the picturesque gardens of the Withernsea Lighthouse, a majestic structure standing 127 feet tall above the seaside town. Built in 1892, the lighthouse is situated 400 metres inland—a testament to the rapid coastal erosion on the Holderness coastline, which has reshaped the landscape over the years.
Attendees were welcomed into ‘The Cottage,’ an indoor space within the lighthouse gardens, where a museum and shop showcased the rich history of Withernsea RNLI since its inception in 1862. The exhibit was officially opened by the Mayor of Withernsea, Ian Blackburn, at 10:30am, setting the tone for a day filled with celebration and reflection.
Inside ‘The Cottage,’ the museum was filled with photographs chronicling Withernsea RNLI's history and other artefacts that brought the past to life. Among the exhibits was an award from The Flax Trust, a Northern Irish organisation, recognising the crew's heroism. The Irish Bog Oak award was presented to the crew for being first on the scene at the Kegworth Air Disaster in 1989. This prestigious award has been given to only a select few, placing the Withernsea Lifeboat Crew in distinguished company.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, The Pavilion Pierrots delivered a stellar performance, singing songs that brightened the day and kept spirits high, fending off the gloomy weather. Their uplifting presence was a highlight of the event, and Withernsea RNLI expressed deep gratitude for their participation.
The local fundraising branch and the water safety team were also on hand, engaging with visitors and distributing valuable information on sea safety. Their efforts underscored the ongoing mission of the RNLI to promote safety and prevent tragedies at sea.
The celebration further featured the Spurn, Kilnsea, Easington, and Local Areas (SKEALs) group, who presented an impressive display detailing the history of Withernsea RNLI from 1862. This historical showcase offered a deep dive into the lifeboat station’s storied past and its enduring impact on the community.
Rounding out the day’s offerings were various stallholders and refreshments provided by the lighthouse café, ensuring that visitors had plenty to enjoy as they explored the event.
The anniversary celebration at Withernsea Lighthouse was not just a tribute to the past but also a vibrant affirmation of the RNLI’s ongoing commitment to saving lives at sea. As the community came together to honour these milestones, the spirit of service and dedication that defines the RNLI was proudly on display.
RNLI Media contacts
For more information, please contact James Medcalf, volunteer RNLI 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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter 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.