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Singing sea shanties to help save lives at sea at Wells RNLI

Lifeboats News Release

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.

Sam Ireson and Sue Ireson present Wells RNLI with Cheque from Brancaster Sea Shanty Festival With members of Wells RNLI infront of Shannon class lifeboat ‘ Duke of Edinburgh’

RNLI/Jess Curtis

Sam Ireson and Sue Ireson present Wells RNLI with Cheque from Brancaster Sea Shanty Festival

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

Like more than 200 RNLI stations around the coast of the UK and Ireland, the lifesaving work of Wells RNLI could not be possible without the kindness of those who give donations or leave legacies to the charity that saves lives at sea.

RNLI media contacts

For more information call Jessica Curtis, Wells RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer on 07860 200790 or Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Communications Manager, North and East on 07824 518641, or the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Blakeney Wild Rovers preforming at Sea shanty festival

Brancaster sea shanty festival

Blakeney Old Wild Rovers preforming at Sea shanty festival

RNLI/Jess Curtis

Members of Brancaster sea shanty festival being given a tour of Duke of Edinburgh

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.