|
|
| November 2007 WE'RE APPEALING! An appeal has been launched to raise £1 million for a new building to house Shoreham harbour lifeboat.
The slipway of the boathouse, which has been at the harbour since 1933, has started to sink under the weight of the 28-tonne Tyne-class lifeboat.
Inside, the boathouse facilities are also in need of updating. There are no changing facilities for crew members and the lower floor floods at high tide, leaving the mechanic's workshop and inshore lifeboat shed full of sea water.
The new station will include a larger boat hall, a crew training room, proper drying facilities for wet crew kit, changing facilities and a viewing platform for the public. The appeal has already received a donation of £5,000 from Sussex Police.
Chief Inspector Lawrence Hobbs, Adur district commander, said: "It's always a pleasure to support worthy local charities with monies we have seized from criminals. The RNLI is an exceptional organisation, staffed by incredibly brave and dedicated volunteers who provide a very valuable emergency service to the local community."
To find out more about the RNLI's £1 million Shoreham Harbour Appeal and how you can support it, visit |
| November 2007 2008 CALENDAR NOW AVAILABLE Our 2008 Calendar is now available now. Help us raise the vital funds we need to run our service - our useful calendars include monthly tide tables so you'll always know how much water there is to play in! They are available from: Suters Yard, The Royal Sovereign, The Buckingham Arms, Lighters , The Waterside Inn, The Duke of Wellington, The Schooner, The Ship in Southwick, The Co-op at Windmill Parade Southwick, The Sussex Yacht Club and of course Shoreham Lifeboat Station. Our thanks to all these retailers for their support. |
| July 2007 LOCAL AWARDS FOR SERVICE TO THE INSTITUTION Crew member Ian Cosham, who until recently filled the vital 3rd mechanic role aboard the ALB, celebrated 20 years with the Institution this month. In a private ceremony, Ian, who served as an ILB helmsman and ALB crew member during his career, was presented with the coveted 20 years service badge to mark the occasion. At the same time, Ginger Landale, who has served as a Deputy Lanching Authority for 15 years, was presented with a silver statuette to recognise his contribution and commitment. pic Well done from everyone at the boathouse! |
| July 2007 CHINESE LIFEBOAT CREWS TRAIN WITH THE RNLI A group of Chinese Lifeboat crew visited Shoreham lifeboat station for discussions with RNLI staff about lifeboat operations and maintenance. They are employees of the China Rescue and Salvage Bureau and this is the fourth group to visit UK for training on Tyne class lifeboats. The Chinese Rescue Service (CRS) has bought several lifeboats over the last two years and the RNLI has provided crew-training packages both at The Lifeboat College, Poole and in Shanghai. Throughout the period, the RNLI has provided trainers who have completing a total of 9 courses in both countries. Now, with up to 80 students trained in the safe operation of these ex-RNLI lifeboats, China is well-equipped and trained to start this new venture. Very few of the Chinese crews have visited UK before and few speak English. But, their current Trainers Dan Nicholson and Bryan Jackson (both retired from the RNLI), appreciate that their students find the way of life over here very different. For example eating without chopsticks! They are also amazed to find just how many of the goods for sale in our shops are made in China. This ‘culture shock’ is much the same as Dan and Bryan experienced when they spent a month working in Shanghai back in 2005. But, say Dan and Bryan, “The Chinese are very hard workers and they learn very quickly. They are at the start of an exciting new era for China Rescue”. The boats already in China have already saved lives too. In March this year one of the Arun Class lifeboats in Shanghai saved 40 fishermen in one dramatic rescue. As the UK’s volunteer maritime rescue service, the RNLI is very keen to promote this new life-saving project and has a 5 year agreement with the CRS for exchange of ideas and information. This has got off to a good start and it is to be hoped that it continues in the same way. With the Olympic sailing events only a year away, it will be interesting to see what involvement these lifeboats and their crews will have in Beijing. |
| May 2007 It is with great sadness that we must announce the passing of two ex crew members. Former 2nd Coxswain Peter Lowe died on the evening of 19th May. Peter served on the lifeboats at Shoreham for 31 years. Less than two days later Ken Voice, who served as coxswain from 1976 to 1981, also passed away after a brief stay in St Barnabas Hospice. They will be remembered as two experienced and dedicated crewmen who served during some of the busiest periods for the lifeboats at Shoreham. They will be sadly missed by friends and colleagues. Our thoughts are with their families at this time. |
| November 2006 Each year the crew join the remembrance parade to the war memorial in Shoreham town centre. This year we were particularly well represented with 23 crew and shore helpers attending. The parade was snapped by the Shoreham Herald photographer as we marched past. pic |
| September 2006 Lifepod - a new way to get the latest RNLI news The RNLI is trialling a series of podcasts until the end of the year. Why not listen in? November's episode features the opening of the new Lymington lifeboat station by the 1965 crew and medal winner Alan Coster speaks about life as one of the original volunteers. Listeners can also find out more about RNLI awards. Click here to listen |
| September 2006 RNLI plans to extend lifeguard scheme RNLI charity trustees have approved measures that will lead to a doubling of RNLI lifeguard units on UK beaches over the next five years. The announcement coincides with new research indicating that over 25M adults visited the beach at least once* during 2006, an increase of 30% on 2005. This new information on rising seaside visitor numbers is extremely timely as the RNLI expects to provide lifeguard services on potentially another 60 beaches around the UK coastline by 2011. RNLI National Lifeguard Manager, Peter Dawes explains: 'Although we’re not experts in climate change, our weather does appear to be changing and one of the effects is an extended summer season. In addition, advances in equipment and clothing technology mean that more and more people are visiting the seaside for leisure pursuits at other times of the year. ‘The RNLI is a charity that exists for one purpose: to save lives at sea. Ultimately the aim of our lifeguard expansion is to save even more lives by providing a coordinated rescue service from the beach to the open sea using RNLI lifeguards and lifeboat crews in the most effective manner. The advantages of this approach have been clearly demonstrated in the south west of England where RNLI Lifeguards have been operating since 2001, helping more than 47,500 people. As a sea rescue charity with a national presence, the RNLI is well placed to extend this to other areas of the UK and save more lives, particularly on beaches where there is a clear need and no co-ordinated safety measures in place.’ The most visited seaside** area is the south west of England where RNLI lifeguards already patrol 62 of its most popular beaches. Here the number of adults and children needing help has risen again, reflecting the increasing visitor numbers. During 2005, 9,930 adults and children were assisted, rising to 10,286*** this year (2006). * Ipsos MORI base
2,057 UK adults September 2006 |
| September 2006 Busiest summer ever for RNLI crews Preliminary figures for June, July and August 2006 reveal that RNLI lifeboats launched a total of 3,830 times, making it the most demanding Summer season on record for our volunteer lifeboat crews. The figures illustrate a continuing upward trend in lifeboat rescues and the increasing demand on RNLI resources. The busiest RNLI lifeboat station this Summer was Tower (River Thames), with a total of 109 launches. The busiest RNLI stations on the coast were Rhyl (Denbighshire) with 78 launches, Poole (Dorset) with 74 launches, and Southend-on-Sea (Essex) with 73 launches. These figures represent a 4% increase on 2005, the RNLI's previous busiest summer. The latest statistics also reveal that 70% of these launches were performed by the RNLI’s fast and rapid response inshore lifeboats, reflecting the fact that more people than ever before are using the sea for leisure pursuits such as sailing, kite surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, angling, surfing, diving and coasteering. RNLI Sea Safety Manager, Peter Chennell says: ‘Our volunteer crews are still being called out to the typical types of Summer holiday rescues of children being swept out to sea on inflatables or people cut off by the tide, indeed our busiest coastal stations are located in the traditional busy seaside resorts. However, our crews also appear to be helping people who, more and more, are using the sea as a recreational environment. ‘Together, a greater range of water-based activities and hobbies, access to relatively cheap or pre-owned equipment, and what seems to be year-round improved weather patterns mean that more people are now using the sea for leisure. While the majority enjoy their watersports without getting into trouble, some do end up needing the help of the RNLI’s lifeboat volunteers.' |
| July 2006 RNLI urges parents and children to stay SAFE this summer The RNLI is launching a month-long campaign in August to raise awareness among parents and children about the dangers at the seaside. More people visit the seaside in August than any other time in the year. In fact of the 1,153 children rescued by the RNLI in 2005, nearly 50 per cent of these rescues took place in August. The RNLI’s Beachwise campaign aims to educate families about some of the key steps they can take this year to ensure they enjoy a happy and safe holiday. A special website – www.rnli.org.uk/shorething – has been set up to help launch and support the event. This is a fun-packed site filled with games - e.g. building a lifeboat, an electronic sandcastle competition and a Beachwise competition where people can win a family Mediterranean cruise. In addition there are features such as meeting a crew member, a virtual tour of the lifeboat, some cool downloads and good safety tips on how to stay SAFE* which contains the key safety messages. RNLI East Division Sea Safety Manager Guy Addington said: ’The greatest tool we have for improving safety at the beach is education. The RNLI has discovered an alarming lack of awareness of some the basic safety rules** and some concerning misconceptions of seaside risks. ‘One of my particular concerns for the school holidays involves the latest craze of ‘tombstoning’ – which involves jumping into the sea off groynes, piers and promenades. Also the use of inflatables – if these have to be used, please take great care. A sudden change in the wind direction could mean a child could be swept out to sea and this is the last thing we want.’ The research, carried out by the RNLI, identifies a number of particular hazards some real, others perceived. For instance over a third of all children surveyed*** use an inflatable in the sea. Yet despite the popularity of inflatables and bodyboards there is relatively low awareness on how dangerous they can be – in fact most children consider inflatables to be as dangerous as sharks. The actual reasons for RNLI rescues are: Rips – a strong current that can carry the strongest of swimmers out to sea. Inflatables – should not be taken into the sea but if people insist on using them, they should have a line attached, held securely by an adult. Even a slight offshore wind can quickly sweep an inflatable out to sea. They should never be used in strong winds or large waves. Tides – changing tides can be deceptively rapid and can easily cut people off. Always check the local tide tables. Parents are advised to visit lifeguard-patrolled beaches and to ensure that if swimming they do so between the red and yellow flags. The ‘Is your family beachwise’ safety messages are summarised by the word ‘SAFE’ Spot the dangers – check the weather, the area and where the help points are based Always go with a friend – If you get into trouble they can call for help Find and read the safety signs and flags – obeying them will keep you safe Emergency? Stick your hand up & shout, or ring 999/112 and ask for the coastguard RNLI Training Divisional Inspector for the East, Richard Wynn, said: ’Safety is normally the last thing on people’s minds when they visit the beach but following a few simple steps will ensure everyone has a great and safe time on holiday.’ |
| May 2006 Shoreham’s new RNLI lifeboat, Barry Lazell, was officially named during a ceremony at the station on Monday 29 May at 2pm. A new IB1 class inflatable inshore lifeboat has been generously donated by the Woodland family and was named by Mrs Marilyn Lazell, wife of the late Barry Lazell. Mrs Lazell from Essex, who has been an RNLI supporter for many years, decided to name the lifeboat in memory of her husband Barry Lazell who died in 1998. Mrs Lazell said: ‘I have been a supporter of the RNLI for many years and I am very pleased to have provided Shoreham lifeboat station with a lifeboat. This will ensure that the station can continue saving lives at sea.’ The ceremony consisted of the formal handing over of the lifeboat by Mrs Lazell to Dr Dand of the RNLI's Council who then delivered it into the care of the Shoreham Lifeboat Operations Manager. A service of dedication was held by Father Marcus from the Good Shepard, Shoreham beach, and finally Mrs Lazell named the lifeboat. Afterwards a reception was held at the station for guests. Shoreham Lifeboat Operations Manager Chris Bunby said: ‘This is a better equipped lifeboat that will enable us to respond more quickly when the call for help comes.’ The new IB1 inshore lifeboat replaces an older-style D class. The improved lifeboat has an increased top speed of 25 knots, better handling and a satellite navigation system. Shoreham RNLI station is also equipped with a 47ft Tyne class lifeboat. In 2005 the station’s lifeboats were launched on service 61 times, rescuing 69 people. |
| March 2006 In the quest to promote safety at sea, Marinecall and the Met Office, the country's leading providers of telephony-based weather information, announced the launch of a new facility dedicated to members and supporters of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). Using unique telephone and fax numbers dedicated to the RNLI, any sailor or seafarer using the facility will make a contribution to the Institution's funds every time they request a forecast. Typically, from the billed cost of each call, 60% will be credited to the RNLI. Speaking on behalf of the RNLI, Philippa Thompson, said: "Safety at sea is a priority for both the RNLI and Marinecall. By launching this joint initiative we are confident that, not only will the seafarer's favourite charity benefit, but those putting to sea will be able to do so knowing that they are in possession of the most recent weather information accurately interpreted by the world's leading weather forecasting service, the Met Office." Hayley Turnbull, Marinecall Brand Manager, was joined by Paul Mills from the Met Office, who previewed new and improved services coming on stream early in 2006, including greater use of easily assimilated graphics and making full use of the very latest technology both in terms of data gathering and distribution - both of significant benefit to the leisure and professional sailor. Every day Marinecall customers have access to 260+ individual forecasts for coastal locations, inshore waters, offshore and European areas. To receive details of the RNLI's unique telephone numbers, phone 0871 200 3985 or pick up a copy of RNLI's Lifeboat Magazine. |
| January
2006 After several months of training, helmsman Steve Smith has qualified as a coxswain. This means Steve can take command of the all weather boat and crew on service, providing essential back-up to the overall coxswain Peter Huxtable. Congratulations Steve! |
| November
2005 Jack Silverson, long time Shoreham Lifeboat engineer and a dedicated supporter of the Shoreham Lifeboats, sadly died on Friday 4th November. As well as being a crew member for many years, Jack was well known for giving talks and presentations to enthusiasts both young and old. This included many visits to local schools. Jack will be fondly remembered by all his friends at the boathouse, and our thoughts are with his wife Peggy, and the rest of the family. |
| November
2005 Lace up those trainers and support the Royal National Lifeboat Institution Save Our Soles Day on Friday 27th January 2006 and help us save lives at sea. We are asking for your help to make SOS a fantastic success by making sure all, work colleagues, friends and family take part. Get everyone to wear their favourite trainers for the day and donate at least £1 to the RNLI. If you would like to take part, register for a SOS fundraising pack now at www.rnlisos.org.uk/howtotakepart. With your support SOS can be bigger than ever and help to RNLI to fund our services saving lives at sea, last year we saved 486 lives and we rely on voluntary contributions to fund our vital service. |
| August 2005 Our new ILB has arrived! After 9 years of service, our D Class lifeboat 'Forest Row Choir' is to be retired to the relief fleet. The new boat is capable of up to 30 knots - half as fast again as a standard D Class. She is also more manoevrable and better equipped. The increase in speed will enable us to reach casualties much quicker, cutting down response time by crucial minutes. The boat was funded by the Woodland family, who are long time supporters of the RNLI. The new boat is named 'Barry Lazell' after Mrs Joan Woodland's son-in -law who died suddenly in 1998. The new ILB page is here. |
| July 2005 The crew were invited to the Buckingham Arms, in Brunswick Road, Shoreham, to be presented with a substantial donation. A long time supporter of the Shoreham Lifeboats, landlord Keith and the staff and regulars had raised over £1600 for the station, via a number of initiatives including a swear box! Our thanks go to all involved for this generous donation, which will fund vital lifesaving equipment for Shoreham. pic |
| July 2005 The annual Adur Bath Tub Race was won, once again, by Shoreham Lifeboat Coxswain Peter Huxtable, accompanied by fellow crew member Steve Smith. Peter has held the trophy for longer than many of the crew can remember - one day someone will cross the line before him but not this year! The RNLI tub, rowed by Tim Fox and Ben Coe, managed a very creditable 3rd. pics |
| July 2005 The Brighton & Hove Auctioneers and Estate Agents Association, the body that represents many local estate agents, has donated £250 from its charities fund to the RNLI. Coxswain Peter Huxtable accepted the cheque on behalf of the RNLI from association president Chris Oakley. pic The money will help fund equipment and training for local lifeboats and crews, and shows how much support exists for the RNLI from local businesses. |
| July 2005 On 10th July, Coxswain Peter Huxtable MBE represented the RNLI at the World War II anniversary parade in London. The parade marked 60 years since the end of hostilities. Throughout the war years, the RNLI played a vital role saving the lives of sailors and airmen stranded in the waters around the UK. The Shoreham Lifeboat Rosa Woodd and Phyllis Lunn took part in the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk. |
| July 2005 The annual Shoreham Harbour open day was a great success this year with attendance up on the previous year. There was lots to see and do including demonstrations by three lifeboats, and a fire appliance from Shoreham. pics |
| April 2005 In April some of our crew were treated to a visit to the Coastguard rescue hellicopter based at Lee-on-Solent. For more details and pics see here. They were then given a tour of the main ops room at Solent Coastguard, and given the chance to see how incidents are managed prior to, and during our involvement. Many thanks to the Captain, crew and staff of the helicopter, and the Watch Officer and staff at the Coastguard centre. |
| March 2005 ALB navigator and ILB helm Peter Everard passed out in March to be deputy second coxswain on the ALB. This means that he can now take command of the boat if the coxswain and second coxswin are unavailable. Pete's father, Kenn Everard, was coxswain at Shoreham from 1981-1990. Our congratulations go to Peter. |
| March 2005 Latest RNLI statistics show that Shoreham was the 19th busiest station in the division (East) during 2004. Despite a poor summer weatherwise, the boats at Shoreham launched 46 times, rescuing a total of 26 people. The busiest Station in the division was Tower Pier on the Thames, their full time crews launching an astonishing 322 times. |
| March 2005 For those that have some history with the lifeboats at Shoreham, there is a new archive picture page. See here for a glimpse of the past at Shoreham. |
| February
2005 Dr Tim Stevenson, our Honorary Medical Advisor and on call doctor, has been elected Chairman of the committee. The committe is responsible for the funding and overall running of the station. |
| January
2005 In the 2005 New Year honours list, Coxswain Peter Huxtable was awarded the MBE. Our congratulations go to him and his family. For more details about Peter, see here. |
| November
2004 Local glaziers Worthing Glass, of The High Street, Worthing, replaced a number of broken window panes at the boathouse free of charge. The panes were broken during a spate of vandalism in the summer (except for one which appears to have been a genuine accident with a football). The generosity of this local company means a big saving - money which will go directly towards funding equipment and training for our boats and crew. |
| August 2004 In August we were visited by 2 students from the Japan Coastguard School. It's the second time Shoreham has been visited by representatives from the Japan Coastguard. For pics and details see here. |