Valentine's Day ska concert raises money for Mudeford RNLI
There was love in the air and on the dancefloor at Highcliffe Sports and Social Club this Saturday evening. The venue was a sea of two-tone outfits and decorations as music lovers gathered to celebrate Valentine’s Day in true ska style — all in support of Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Station.
The sell-out concert saw Dorset ska band, Ratrace, deliver a high-energy performance that kept the dancefloor packed from start to finish. The band’s infectious rhythms and classic ska hits created an electric atmosphere and kept the crowd on their feet the whole night.
Event organiser, Graeme Staddon, said, ‘This was the second time to hold this concert, and it was fantastic to see so many people come together again for Mudeford RNLI. The atmosphere was brilliant — a real celebration of music, community, and support for the volunteer crew.
‘As an independent lifesaving charity, the RNLI rely on fundraising events like this to help keep their lifeboats launching. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who bought a ticket, donated, or supported the raffle.’
Thanks to the generosity of those attending, the evening raised £1400 with all proceeds going directly to Mudeford RNLI Lifeboat Station.
Mudeford RNLI volunteer Helm, Ian Parker, who was at the concert explained, 'The funds raised will help ensure the crew have the training, equipment and support needed to continue saving lives at sea. On behalf of all of us at the station, a big thank you to Graeme for organising this event, to Ratrace for their amazing performance and to everyone who supported the evening.'
Mudeford RNLI’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, launched 77 times last year and the volunteer crew are on call 24/7, 365 days a year.
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.