Freshwater Independent Lifeboat is calling on the local community to ‘Buy a Brick’ to help it complete essential renovations to its lifeboat station, ensuring it can continue saving lives at sea for generations to come.
Founded by the local community in 1972, Freshwater Independent Lifeboat relies totally on community fundraising to help it operate. The station building was last renovated in 2008 and now, nearly two decades later, the charity is investing in a major upgrade to create a safer, more functional and future-ready base for its volunteer crew.
A fundraising campaign encouraging people to ‘Buy a Brick’ has already had a great response from the local community with more than 450 bricks at £50 a brick having already been donated (£22,500) in addition to the £595,000 the charity has committed to the project.
More needed
However, a total of £160,000 is needed to complete the full project which will include:
- Safer, more functional machinery storage
- A dedicated upstairs space for training, community events and local groups
- A larger, more efficient shop that helps fund the station’s annual operating costs
With the transformation work already underway on site with local building firm Stoneham Construction having completed the footings and concrete pour, the Lifeboat crew are appealing for more people and local companies to donate and buy a ‘brick’.
MacGregor: This station exists because of our community support
Josh MacGregor, Freshwater Independent Lifeboat Station Upgrade Lead, said,
“We’re really grateful for all the support we have had so far. This station exists because of our community support and every brick purchased will directly support the Freshwater Independent Lifeboat building project and help shape the future of our lifesaving station.
“Whether your brick(s) honours a loved one, celebrates your family, or simply shows your support, it will become a part of our new building, visible and remembered for generations to come.
“It’s easy to get involved so please buy a brick, back your lifeboat and be part of this lifesaving legacy and of course you are not limited to buying just one brick should you feel able to contribute on a larger scale.”
All names will be featured on a permanent printed brick display wall inside the new station.
The exterior of the new station and shop is currently scheduled to be complete and weathertight by July with the internal fit-out completed as soon as funding allows.
To buy a brick(s) you can visit their Just Giving page directly. Or email [email protected] for more details.
You can also find information, along with other ways you can donate to Freshwater Independent Lifeboat, by visiting their website.
News shared by Claire on behalf of Freshwater Independent Lifeboat. Ed
