Longhope Lifeboat stalwart Trish Avis recognised for two decades of service

When Trish Avis moved to Hoy from Leicestershire, she was looking for a change of lifestyle. What she could not have known at the time was that she was also stepping into a community, and a cause, that would go on to shape the next three decades of her life.

In 1995, Trish and her husband Iain, who was already working in Orkney, made the significant decision to relocate north and settle in Longhope. That same year, both became involved with the RNLI. Iain initially joined as a volunteer lifeboat crew member and would later progress to the role of volunteer coxswain, while Trish quickly found her place within the Longhope lifeboat family by joining the Lifeboat Guild. Her introduction to RNLI fundraising came almost immediately when she helped at an Open Day in 1995, an early indication of the long-standing commitment and dedication that was to follow.

Although Trish was brought up in the landlocked Midlands, the RNLI had always been important to her, and she understood from a young age the vital role it plays in saving lives at sea. She fondly recalls being encouraged by her parents to donate at lifeboat flag days. That quiet respect for the RNLI’s lifesaving work became something much deeper once she arrived in Longhope, where she says she realised almost immediately, ‘this is where I belong’.

The Longhope Lifeboat Guild itself has deep and proud roots in the community. Originally established as the Longhope Branch of the Ladies Lifeboat Guild, on 8 March 1960 the Guild held its first meeting where, Mrs Jean Swanson of Oljaren, Melsetter, was elected as the first president. Over time, the branch evolved into the Longhope Lifeboat Guild, reflecting its inclusive volunteer base of both men and women.

Since joining as a volunteer in 1995, Trish has taken on key roles within the Guild, serving as Secretary from 2007, before becoming President in 2010, a role she continues to hold today. In 2025, the Longhope Lifeboat Guild proudly celebrated its 65th anniversary and the Guild remain as active and committed as ever, continuing to raise vital funds for the RNLI and support the lifesaving work of the station. Today, the Guild has 28 dedicated members, who meet four times a year to plan and deliver fundraising events that bring the whole community together.

Much of the Guild’s work happens behind the scenes: the planning, organising, baking, setting up and clearing away that ensures each fundraiser is welcoming and enjoyable. It is this teamwork that defines Longhope, where community support for the RNLI runs deep and, as Trish puts it, ‘everyone helps out’.

However, there have been many proud and memorable moments. Trish recalls the enormous effort involved in catering for 400 people during events marking the 50th anniversary of the Longhope Lifeboat disaster, a powerful and emotional milestone. More recently, 2024 proved unforgettable, with the station’s 150th anniversary coinciding with the RNLI’s 200th year, resulting in almost an event every single month. Representing the Guild at the Royal Garden Party at Holyrood in June 2023 also stands out as a very special honour.

On 7 November 2025, Trish’s 20 years of service were formally recognised when she received her long-service award, presented by Dr Iain Cromerty, at the annual bazaar. True to form, and with her characteristic modesty, Trish admits she was shocked to receive the award, describing it as an unexpected honour.

She is clear that she does not see the recognition as a reflection on her alone, but on the whole team, acknowledging that none of what has been achieved would have been possible without the collective effort of the Guild, lifeboat crew and shore-based volunteers. For Trish, the award represents pride in being part of a great ‘crew’ of volunteers whose shared commitment directly helps to save lives at sea.

Trish describes what has kept her motivated throughout her years of service simply as, ‘The people! The Guild members, lifeboat crew and shore-based staff are a fantastic team, where everyone consistently gives 100%. But none of it would be possible without our close-knit community who support us in everything we do’.

Reflecting on how things have changed during her twenty years with the Guild, Trish said, ‘Although technology has changed some aspects of fundraising, the reality is that much of it remains unchanged, our people just come together, give their time, and support their lifeboat station and its lifesaving work. Who could ask for more!” Looking to the future, Trish’s hope is that the Guild continues from strength to strength. And to anyone thinking about volunteering, her advice is as straightforward as ever, ‘Go for it’.

Lifeboat Operations Manager, Alan Mackinnon, expressed the pride felt by the entire team, stating: 'We are incredibly proud of Trish and everything she has achieved. This award is thoroughly deserved and reflects not only her dedication, but the huge amount of time, commitment and hard work she has given to the RNLI. Trish and the Lifeboat Guild play a vital role in supporting the station, and the wider RNLI. That support is truly valued by the entire team. We simply could not do what we do without the efforts of volunteers like Trish and the Guild behind us.'

The RNLI does not receive any government funding, relying entirely on fundraising and donations to continue its mission of saving lives at sea. If you would like to get involved in volunteering, you can reach out to your local lifeboat station, where the Lifeboat Operations Manager or a member of the station team will be happy to discuss the range of volunteering opportunities available. Everyone is welcome, and the kettle is always on.

Notes to editors

• Longhope lifeboat station has been operating since 1874. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: Longhope Lifeboat Station (rnli.org)

RNLI media contacts

Vicky Mackinnon, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07703 688066, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789 [email protected]