Couple wrap up epic fundraising tour for RNLI at Calshot base

A FUNDRAISING couple’s epic tour of British and Irish lifeboat stations ended at Calshot’s RNLI base.

Crew members said they were “delighted” to welcome supporters Jules and Debs back to the base, where they had begun their challenge eleven months earlier.

The pair set themselves the goal of visiting all 238 stations, and the RNLI’s two build and repair facilities, in honour of Jules’ late father Trevor and his lifelong friend Alan Perks.

After driving 10,500 miles and taking 39 ferry voyages and 10 flights, the couple completed the challenge and raised £11,516, including Gift Aid contributions.

Afterwards, Jules said: “We were given such a fantastic welcome during every visit we made on our challenge. While the boats and stations are amazing, the standout for us were the people – they are the life and soul of this wonderful organisation.”

The fundraisers also presented Calshot RNLI with a framed commemorative 200th anniversary RNLI collection display.

Calshot RNLI’s lifeboat operations manager Mike Atwell said: “This has been a phenomenal achievement; the sheer scale of the challenge and fundraising is off the charts.

“The commemorative presentation display is so special and will take pride of place on display in the station. We are massively grateful to Jules and Debs for their time, commitment and fundraising.

“We rely on donations to allow us to continue our lifesaving work.”