RNLI FARINGDON SIGNS PIECE OF HISTORY

By Jennie Mercer, The Advertiser Magazine

A once in a lifetime moment unfolded on May Day as a special scroll marking the bi-centenary of the RNLI graced the Old Town Hall in Faringdon, with a gathering of supporters and dignitaries witnessing the event.

Among the guests were deputy Lord Lieutenant Neil Sutherland, a longstanding branch supporter, Faringdon Town Council Mayor Peter Castle and Kiera Bentley, chair of Vale of White Horse District Council.

Branch chair Dave Thompson said: "It was a super event which will live long in the memory."

The RNLI, founded by Sir William Hillary, is marking its 200th anniversary with the signing of a unique scroll, marking its commitment to saving everyone possible, without judgement.

The scroll with a spindle crafted from a repurposed flagpole and a protective case made from the same materials used to build and maintain lifeboats, is making its way across the UK and Ireland.

The historic journey began at Westminster Abbey on March 4, the bi-centenary anniversary, where it received signatures from notable figures including the RNLI president, the Duke of Kent, and the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Since then, volunteer driver/presenter Chris Smith has accompanied the scroll alongside co-ordinator Elliot Leech covering over 4,000 miles to date across the south and midlands before heading north into Scotland and then over to Ireland.

Over seven months the scroll will visit around 300 RNLI stations and outlets, ending its journey in October on the Isle of Man, once home to Sir William Hillary.

Former branch chair Denis Pope, did the honours for RNLI Faringdon with the 274th signature, followed by Ray Bell for Swindon and Tim Hayes for Oxford.

Mr Pope has been a dedicated supporter for over 40 years, fuelled by his passion for sailing and covering over 13,000 miles in his younger days.

Despite being the furthest from the sea, since Faringdon branch was founded in the 1970s tireless efforts have raised well over £150,000 for the RNLI’s cause.

Among the welcome guests at the signing was Colette Keogh-Green, Community Champion for Tesco in Faringdon, where the branch’s stall has helped raise record figures in recent months.

For more information email Dave Thompson at davejthompson3@gmail.com or phone 07825-168750