Sheringham Shantymen raise vital funds for Sheringham and Cromer RNLI
Sheringham Shantymen's annual RNLI fundraiser performance delights sold-out audience
The Sheringham Shantymen once again took to the stage at the Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre on Sunday 3 November for their eagerly awaited annual RNLI fundraiser, this year celebrating the 200th anniversary of the RNLI with a special concert titled The Sail of Two Centuries.
Playing to a sold-out crowd, the Shantymen marked the occasion with new songs, heartfelt presentations, and a powerful dedication to the lifesaving efforts of the RNLI.
The performance opened with a haunting rendition of Hoist the Colours, marking its public debut by the Shantymen.
Bathed in red LED lighting and enveloped by smoke, the group set a dramatic and evocative atmosphere that captivated the audience from the very first note.
Adding to the evening’s excitement was a video introduction from renowned comedian and Monty Python legend, Michael Palin, who shared memories of childhood holidays in Sheringham and fondly recalled visiting the lifeboat station.
In true Palin fashion, he brought humor and warmth, noting his admiration for the Shantymen’s dedication and playfully referencing Musical Director Brian Farrow with the classic line from the Python film 'The Life of Brian', 'He's not the messiah, he's a very naughty boy!'
After the intermission Shantymen Chairman Bob Hawkins presented cheques each for £2,250 to Sheringham and Cromer RNLI.
Conveniently, the Lifeboat Operations Managers (LOMs) for both lifeboat stations are themselves Shantymen members: Brian Farrow for Sheringham and John Redmond for Cromer.
Mr Redmond, receiving Cromer’s cheque, expressed his gratitude and said: 'Cromer Lifeboat Station is grateful for the continued yearly support from the Sheringham Shantymen.
'It’s wonderful they continue their long tradition of generating funds for Cromer and Sheringham lifeboats, especially in the 200th anniversary year of the RNLI.'
True to tradition, the Shantymen also debuted a music video for their song Little Lize, which was met with enthusiastic applause, leading to a double encore demand from the audience at the close of the two hour show.
Musical Director and Sheringham RNLI volunteer LOM Brian Farrow said: 'We absolutely love performing to this wonderful crowd at the Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre each November.
'To be able to raise £4,500 for the RNLI, a charity so close to our hearts, is only possible thanks to the people who buy tickets and continue to support us and the RNLI with such dedication. We thank each and every one of them.'
The evening was a testament to the Shantymen’s enduring support for the RNLI, and the legacy they proudly carry forward, ensuring that the lifeboat stations in Sheringham and Cromer can continue their vital work in the community.
RNLI Media contacts
For more information please contact Clare Stagg, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer: [email protected] or Chris Taylor, RNLI Volunteer and Shanytman 07941009745
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 142,700 lives.
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.