Wells RNLI volunteers ready to leave Christmas celebrations to save lives
As families across the country prepare for festive celebrations, Wells RNLI is highlighting the dedication of its volunteer lifeboat crews, who will be spending Christmas ready to respond at a moment’s notice.
On average, RNLI lifeboats launch more than 100 times during the Christmas period* every year with 119 launches recorded in 2024 alone. Whatever weather winter may bring, Wells RNLI volunteers remain prepared to leave their celebrations with loved ones to battle the elements and save lives at sea.
2025 has been one of the station’s busiest and most rewarding years. It has been a particularly demanding year, with Wells RNLI volunteers launching to emergencies both in their local waters and at times along wider stretches of the East coast. The station has also welcomed visitors from across the world to explore the state-of-the-art lifeboat station and meet the crew, giving almost 1,300 private tours throughout the year as well as engaging with thousands of daily visitors.
Wells RNLI volunteers have taken part in collaborative training and joint fundraising events with Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service and the Blood Bikers charity, delivered a packed calendar of community fundraising activities, from summer fetes to fish and chip dinners and the shop volunteers have worked tirelessly to keep the ever-busy RNLI shop running smoothly. Wells RNLI has also demonstrated how lifesaving charities support each other, working closely with other emergency and rescue organisations to ensure safety and preparedness across the region.
Throughout 2025, the station has benefited from unwavering support from local businesses, organisations and the wider community. From generous donations and sponsorship to homemade cakes, face painting at family events, fish and chip nights, raffles, entertainment and countless acts of kindness, the people of Wells and the surrounding area have stood firmly behind their lifeboat crew.
The station has also seen significant activity in water safety engagement, media coverage and community outreach, all supporting the RNLI’s mission to save everyone. As the festive season approaches, Wells RNLI is reminding people to enjoy the coast safely. Tidal cut-off continues to be one of the biggest risks in the area.
Mandy Humphreys, Wells RNLI Volunteer Water Safety Officer, said:
‘Anyone can get into difficulty in the water, and we are so pleased that we were able to assist those who needed help and reunite them with their families. Even at this time of year, people can still get into trouble. To avoid being cut off by the tide in this area, please make sure you are back to the main part of the beach, dry sand or solid ground at least four hours before Wells Bar high tide time.
‘The volunteer lifeboat crews couldn’t launch without the kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely.”
Wells RNLI Press Officer, Jess Curtis, added: ‘I am endlessly proud and grateful for every single person involved at Wells RNLI. Our crew, shore crew, shop volunteers, fundraisers, station management and water safety team give so much of their time, energy and heart not just at Christmas, but every hour of every day, 365 days a year.
‘No matter what I ask of them, whether it is a last-minute media request, a big event or one of my slightly ambitious ideas, they always step up with professionalism and good humour. There is often a raised eyebrow or two when I come rushing in with a new idea, but it is always followed by a smile, a laugh, and someone saying, ‘Go on then, we’ll make it work.’ Their willingness to support, even under pressure, is just incredible.’
Jess continued ‘It is an absolute privilege to work alongside such extraordinary people who save lives at sea, support their community and look after each other. They truly are heroes in every sense.’
These rescues, and the thousands carried out across the UK and Ireland each year including many along the Northeast coast, are only made possible thanks to the generosity of the public. Donations fund the vital kit, training and equipment that keep RNLI crews safe and ready to respond.
Christmas is a time for family and friends, but the RNLI’s volunteer crews remain prepared to leave their own celebrations at a moment’s notice to answer the call for help.
To support the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal and help the charity continue its lifesaving work, visit RNLI.org/WinterAppeal.
RNLI Notes to editors
*’Christmas period’ refers to 24 December – 1 January inclusive
Stats for 2024: 119
2023: 120
2022: 102
2021: 107
2020: 108
RNLI Media contacts for more information please telephone Jess Curtis, RNLI Regional Communications Manager Southeast. Volunteer Press Officer Wells RNLI on 07483488243 or [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
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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.