Singing sea shanties to help RNLI save lives at sea
A sea shanty band's fundraising performance will see a Deputy Lieutenant transform from the monarch's man in the county to musical mariner for the night!
At 7.30pm on Friday 25 April 2025, a wonderful evening is planned by Deputy Lieutenant of County of Bedfordshire Andrew Wallis MBE and Sloop Groggy Dogs Sea Shanty band in aid of RNLI.
The sea shanty band from Milton Keynes have supported the RNLI for more than 10 years and will be preforming an evening of shanty songs and laughter at Bedford Corn Exchange.
The evening is intended to raise funds for the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire’s nominated local charities and the RNLI.
Sloop Groggy Dogs are offering an evening of great singing, audience involvement and laughter. Parrots, wooden legs and eye patches are optional, but spot prizes will be awarded to those who attend in fancy dress.
Deputy Lieutenant Andrew Wallis MBE said: ‘I normally wander around the county in my full military uniform representing the Lord Lieutenant but, on 25 April, I will be on stage in my stripy sailor's t-shirt and my tarry hat performing for the Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff, the Mayor of Bedford and other civic dignitaries as well as, hopefully, 600 others!
‘I hope the community of Bedford and surrounding communities will come out in support of the chosen charities and help us play a part in supporting the RNLI’s mission to save lives at sea.’
The RNLI as a charity relies on the kindness and generosity of people such as the Sloop Groggy Dogs Shanty band and what better way to help volunteer crews 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.
Tickets available from Bedford Corn exchange www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk or Telephone box office 01234 718044
RNLI media contact
For more information please telephone Jess Curtis, RNLI Media Engagement placement on 07860200790 or [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
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.
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