Between 10.30am and 3pm on Sunday 26th May 2024, RNLI volunteers will carry out guided tours of the state-of-the-art factory in Clarence Road, East Cowes, PO32 6HB where most of the lifesaving charity’s inshore lifeboats are built and maintained.
Glyn Ellis, Inshore Lifeboat Centre Business Operations Manager, said,
“Come along and meet the staff who build the lifeboats and the see how the lifeboats are built during a day of family fun.
“This year’s ILC Open Day is cause for special celebration as the RNLI marks 200 years of saving lives at sea. It’s a chance to commemorate our brave crews past and present, celebrate the world-class lifesaving organisation we are today and 146,000 lives saved, and inspire the crew, supporters and volunteers of tomorrow.”
Lifeboat Naming Ceremony
The Island’s Lord Lieutenant Mrs Susie Sheldon will officially declare the day open at 10.30am. The public can walk round the site and observe a Lifeboat Naming Ceremony of a new D class Lifeboat D-890 Bill Hall at 1pm.
Nigel Hall, Trustee of both the Green Hall Foundation and the Robert Hall Foundation will officially name the vessel before the lifeboat gets blessed.
Meet RNLI mascot Stormy Stan
Youngsters will meet RNLI mascot Stormy Stan, learn how to tie marine knots, get their faces painted, have lifejackets checked and watch afloat lifeboat demonstrations in the marina.
A programme of live entertainment includes musical interludes from The Slipshod Singers, the Cowes Concert Band, The ILC’s own Ukulele band and the famous Medina Marching Band.
Hudd: The charity relies on volunteers and kind donations
Slipshod Singers Musical Director Adrian Hudd said,
“As longstanding members of the marine community, The Slipshod Singers are proud to support the RNLI with a special performance at the ILC Open Day this month.
“This year crews mark 200 years of launching lifeboats in perilous seas in their mission to save everyone.
“It’s important to remember the charity relies on volunteers and kind donations to power its 24/7 rescue service.
“We’re happy to remind open day visitors of this through the power of song.”
Everybody is welcome. Entry is free
Representatives from emergency services on the Island include HM Coastguard and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
Visitors can look around the Island’s RNLI heritage and visitors centre, opened by HRH Princess Anne in 2018, have a photo taken in the D class and meet our Face to Face team.
