Pirate weekend at Lord Derby St Annes in memory of RNLI crew member Josh Willder raises thousands of pounds
“I feel enormously proud that we have been able to create something so positive for our community”
A weekend of fun, fundraising and community spirit in St Annes in memory of a much-missed RNLI crew member proved a super success.
The Pirate-themed festival weekend at the Lord Derby pub around £3,500 for the RNLI and £1,000 for Listening Ear, a suicide prevention charity.
The event was dedicated to the memory of Josh Willder, a crew member at Lytham St Annes RNLI, who was just 26 when he took his own life in 2024.
The Pirate weekend was initiated by St Annes town mayor, Cllr Cheryl Little, and Lord Derby manager Emma Willder, Josh’s mum, who brought together residents, families, local businesses, entertainers and visitors.
The weekend featured a treasure hunt, fancy dress competition, live music and a line-up of 16 bands, performers and entertainers.
Cllr Cheryl Little, Town Mayor, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the success of our very first Mayoral Pirate Fest. To see so many people coming together, enjoying themselves and supporting such important causes has been incredibly special.
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“I feel enormously proud that we have been able to create something so positive for our community.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make the weekend possible and to everyone who came along, joined in the fun, bought raffle tickets, made donations, and helped make the event such a success. Your generosity and enthusiasm meant so much.”
“I am equally grateful to residents for their patience, understanding, and support throughout the weekend.
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“I recognise that events of this nature can bring some disruption, and I sincerely appreciate the understanding shown by our community.
“Most importantly, I hope we have demonstrated what a wonderful town we have and what can be achieved when people come together with kindness, generosity and a shared purpose.
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“The weekend was about so much more than pirates, music and fundraising. It was about bringing people together, supporting one another and making a positive difference. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
Emma Willder said: “It was a great event and I am so glad it was so successful and raised so much many. It was wonderful to support such good causes - Josh was very proud of being an RNLI crew member and they were so supportive after he passed away.”