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Lifeboat Weekend returns to Staithes and Runswick this August
Staithes and Runswick RNLI is preparing for Lifeboat Weekend 2026, taking place from 14–16 August. The popular community event will bring together residents, visitors and supporters for a weekend of family fun, entertainment and fundraising to help support the RNLI's lifesaving work.
Lifeboat Weekend Coordinator Colin Harrison said:
'Lifeboat Weekend is always a fantastic occasion for the village, providing an opportunity for people to enjoy themselves while supporting the RNLI and learning more about the work our volunteers carry out to help save lives at sea.
'Every pound raised helps support our lifesaving service, and we're incredibly grateful for the continued support we receive from the local community, visitors, businesses and volunteers who make the weekend possible.'
On Saturday, activities begin in Runswick Bay, where visitors will have the opportunity to meet RNLI volunteers and learn more about the charity's work. Back in Staithes, a variety of fundraising stalls, games and attractions will be open throughout the day, with RNLI souvenirs and gifts available to purchase.
One of the day's highlights will be the annual lifeboat exercise, featuring Staithes and Runswick RNLI alongside visiting search and rescue partners, subject to operational requirements. The demonstration offers visitors a chance to see the skills, teamwork and equipment involved in maritime search and rescue operations.
The popular Homemade Raft Race will once again launch from the lifeboat slipway, with competitors taking to the water in a colourful display of creativity and determination. Saturday evening will see the return of the Fancy Dress Parade, followed by live entertainment and a spectacular firework display over the harbour.
On Sunday morning, hundreds of yellow ducks will take to the beck for the famous Duck Race, one of the weekend's most popular family events.
Staithes and Runswick RNLI has operated inshore lifeboats since 1978. The station's current Atlantic 85 lifeboat is B-897 Sheila and Dennis Tongue III, which has been on station since 2016.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
James Stoker, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI North and East, [email protected]
Clare Hopps, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for North East and East England, 07824 518641, [email protected]
Richard Grange, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for North East and East England, 07483 112015, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
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.