RNLI Ilfracombe delivers commemorative scroll

Ilfracombe RNLI took centre stage at Minehead RNLI lifeboat station last weekend on Saturday, April 20 as it delivered the commemorative scroll to Minehead RNLI.

The occasion marked the commemoration of the RNLI's 200th anniversary, a milestone celebrated by coastal communities across the UK and Ireland.

The scroll, a special commemorative pledge, is travelling across the UK and Ireland as part of the RNLI's 200th anniversary celebrations. 

Designed to foster connections among RNLI communities, the scroll serves as a symbol of unity and shared purpose. 

Transported in an all-electric Ford E-Transit in partnership with Ford, it carries the RNLI's One Crew pledge - a commitment to saving lives without judgement, echoing the vision of Sir William Hillary, who founded the charity in 1824.

Amidst Minehead’s harbourside, visitors gathered to participate in a series of events planned to honour the RNLI's rich legacy of lifesaving. 

From poetry readings to a book signing by local journalist Chris Rundle, the day was imbued with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the institution that has safeguarded countless lives at sea.

However, it was the arrival of a special delivery at 3.30pm from neighbouring station Ilfracombe that truly captured the essence of the day's celebrations. 

Making its journey across the sea aboard Ilfracombe's formidable all-weather Shannon class lifeboat, the RNLI commemorative scroll arrived to a chorus of anticipation and applause.

Representatives from Ilfracombe RNLI, including members of the fundraising team, operations staff, shop volunteers, and Chairperson Richard Newton, gathered to greet the scroll with reverence. 

Each individual added their signature to the scroll, leaving an indelible mark on the famous scroll.

Commenting on the significance of the occasion, Richard Newton said: "It's a privilege to be part of such a momentous event in the RNLI's history. Ilfracombe RNLI's contribution underscores the strength of our coastal community and the shared values that unite us in our lifesaving mission."

The arrival of the commemorative scroll served as a poignant reminder of the bonds that unite coastal communities in their dedication to maritime safety. 

As the scroll continues its journey across the UK and Ireland, it carries with it the collective gratitude and admiration of all those whose lives have been touched by the RNLI's selfless service over the past two centuries.