RNLI volunteers come together for special photo shoots to mark life-saving charity’s 200th anniversary

RNLI volunteers came together at their stations to take group photographs for a special montage marking the life-saving charity’s 200th anniversary.

Lymington, Mudeford and Calshot were among those who accepted the nationwide invite to strike a pose for ‘One Moment One Crew’ as close to 18.24 as possible on 1st October in honour of the 1824 launch.

As well as the lifeboat crews, this included beach lifeguards, event fundraisers and those who volunteer in museums.

During Lymington’s gathering, time was taken to present a long service award to Chris Knox for 40 years of service and support for the town’s branch.

A Lymington RNLI spokesperson said: “For many of those years Chris has played a major role in fundraising for the station and has been part of a team that has raised thousands of pounds to support our local lifeboat station.

“For all those years of service we owe Chris a huge vote of thanks. Forty years and counting!”

Mudeford’s contribution was a special aerial shot showing fundraising crew friends and colleagues, lifeguards, HM Coastguard, National Coastwatch Institution and other supporters, as well as family members.

They positioned themselves to form the phrase ‘Mudeford RNLI 200’.

Event organiser Louise Adams said: “Bringing 250 people together for a photo was not easy but the enthusiasm and positive spirit from everyone made it such a unique moment.

“We wanted a picture that reflects how much the Mudeford lifeboat station is an integral part of the community, and how much the crew depend on the support and goodwill of so many people to continue their vital work, saving lives at sea.”

Calshot’s gathering also saw a one-minute silence observed to remember all who have served before.

The RNLI celebrated its bicentenary on 4th March, and the photo montage is among a range of events organised for the milestone.

For more information about the anniversary visit rnli.org/200