Himley Hall Sailing Club Raises £108,736 for the RNLI

Himley Hall Sailing Club is one of the smallest sailing clubs affiliated with the Royal Yachting Society. Situated outside of Dudley, Himley Hall Sailing Club has dedicated many years to fundraising for the RNLI.

The club's fundraising journey began shortly after it was formed in 1970. After attending a 24-hour race at a sailing club in Bedfordshire, members decided to organise a similar event at Himley Hall. The RNLI was chosen as the charity to benefit because of its close links with sailing and water-based activities.

From 1976 onwards, the annual 24-hour race became a highlight of the club's calendar, attracting teams who camped beside the lake throughout the event. Despite declining membership and financial challenges over the years, club members remained determined that the race should continue and that every penny raised would go to the RNLI.

The club provides regular training and racing, alongside welcoming schools and local Scout groups. The club has welcomed visits from Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, President of the Royal Yachting Association, and, more recently, Sara Sutcliffe, Chief Executive of the Royal Yachting Association. The club widely supports community events and national competitors who are club members.

The club has worked closely with the RNLI's Kingswinford and Brierley Hill Branch, whose volunteers have provided valued support over many years, helping with fundraising events and joining members after the race.

The club's commitment has been recognised by the RNLI. In 1985, it was announced that a new lifeboat would be named Himley Hall in recognition of the club's fundraising efforts. Club officials travelled to West Mersea for the new lifeboat's launch in 1987. In later years, the club also received the RNLI Spirit of Achievement Award at a ceremony in London.

Alan Dean, Race Coordinator at Himley Hall Sailing Club said:

‘During this special 50th year (2026) of fundraising for the RNLI, the club had hoped to revive the overnight race. Instead, the event involved a six-hour race, where every competitor received a commemorative trophy to mark the occasion.

‘This year's event, held on a wonderfully windy day in June, saw six boats and 20 sailors, including juniors, novice sailors and experienced racers taking to the water. Together they raised a further £753, bringing the club's remarkable fundraising total to £108,736.’

RNLI Community Manager Emma said:

'Himley Hall Sailing Club have raised an extensive amount throughout their many years of fundraising events for the RNLI.

‘We are extremely grateful for their incredible dedication to the RNLI, helping us to save lives at sea.’

Alan continued:

‘The club is extremely proud of the dedication shown by generations of members, volunteers and supporters whose efforts over five decades have helped raise such a significant amount for the RNLI, supporting the charity's lifesaving work around the coasts of the UK.

‘Anyone interested in learning to sail, returning to the sport or simply supporting a friendly local sailing club is warmly invited to get in touch.’

For more information about Himley Hall Sailing Club, visit www.hhsc.weebly.com

RNLI Media Contacts

For more information please contact Betsy Owen, Regional Communications Placement on [email protected] or 077483 485378.

Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or 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.