
Singing sea shanties to help save lives at sea at Wells RNLI
Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty festival held their third festival in September. A total of 17 groups performed at six venues including Jolly Sailors, The White Horse, the Village Hall, St Mary’s Church Deepdale and Brancaster Staithe Sailing Club.
The festival was attended by people from all over the country and even had a surprise visit from George Ezra who was supporting the charities and enjoying the weekend.
The festival raised vital funds for Wells RNLI and National Coast Watch.
Last week, the station was delighted to invite Sam Ireson and his mum Sue Ireson, two of the festival's organisers, to meet with members of the crew and have a tour of the station’s Shannon class lifeboat Duke of Edinburgh.
Sam and Sue presented Coxswain Nicky King with a cheque for £2000 for Wells RNLI.
Festival organiser and shanty singer, Sam Ireson said: ‘Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty Festival was proud to support Wells RNLI this year, drawing an impressive turnout throughout the weekend. Outstanding musical groups performed captivating sea shanties, all in support of two local charities dedicated to safeguarding the North Norfolk coastline.
'Personally, I was thrilled to tour the station and view the Shannon class lifeboat, a remarkable experience. It’s reassuring to know that the Duke of Edinburgh lifeboat is here, steadfast in its mission to keep our coastline safe.
‘A special mention goes to the incredible RNLI volunteers, who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to ensure the safety of others. Their commitment and courage are invaluable to our community, and we are deeply grateful for their service.’
On behalf of Wells RNLI, Coxswain Nicky King, said: 'We are extremely grateful to the Brancaster Sea Shanty Festival for all their hard work and support in raising funds for Wells Station. We all appreciate the significant donations they have made to the RNLI.’
The RNLI as a charity relies on the kindness and generosity of people such as the Brancaster Sea Shanty Festival and what better way to help the volunteer crew continue to be able to save lives at sea 24 hours a day seven days a week 365 days a year than with a sea shanty.
Notes to Editors
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
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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.