Fleetwood RNLI cancels Lifeboat Day

Organisers reluctantly took the decision to call off this major fundraiser because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, following the cancellation of many other major public events.

The event, which was to take place on Saturday July 4 and which draws large crowds each year, is the lifeboat volunteers’ opportunity to thank the local community for their continued support.

It is also a major fundraiser, helping the charity continue to save lives at sea.

Other dates were considered, to enable the event to be postponed until later in the year, but due to tides and other potential problems, this was not possible.

Ken Harcombe, Fleetwood RNLI volunteer Lifeboat press officer said: "It is with enormous regret that we have decided to cancel this year’s Lifeboat Day.

"We know our lifeboat volunteers look forward to the event every year and it is always fantastic to meet up with family, friends, supporters and retired volunteers of the station.

"However, the uncertainty as to how long the pandemic will continue means despite it being a difficult decision to cancel, we know it is the right thing to do to safeguard everyone involved,

including those who attend and our own volunteers.

"Now more than ever we will instead look forward to planning next year’s open day at a time when it is safe to do so."

During the Coronavirus pandemic, Fleetwood RNLI remain on call 24/7 and volunteers are ready to rescue anyone in danger at sea.

However, the pandemic also means that the charity cannot fundraise as normal and essential funds are falling.

Ken added: ""During this time, the RNLI would be grateful to those who are able to fundraise from home or donate to help save lives at sea.

"The RNLI’s annual Mayday Appeal is now live."

To find our more or to make a donation, log onto rnli.org/Mayday