Kippford RNLI welcomed visitors to their first open day in 4 years on Saturday and were overjoyed with the success of the event.
The volunteers had worked hard in the run up to the day to ensure the facilities were ready to welcome the public. The fundraising team provided endless supplies of tea, coffee and home made cakes whilst the water safety team talked to people about the dangers around our coastline.
Families had the chance to view Kippford’s D Class lifeboat Ronnie Sinclair up close and chat to the crew about the equipment and their role at the station. Lifeboats from Workington RNLI, Kirkcudbright RNLI and Nith Inshore Rescue also arrived at Kippford along with the Portling Coastguard Rescue Team.
Observers were able to watch a demonstration of all 4 boats working together to transfer a stretcher between them and then run some man overboard drills. The coastguard team also demonstrated their rope set up for cliff rescue at the side of the water.
The crew from Workington RNLI kindly allowed visitors on board their Shannon Class lifeboat Dorothy May White and spent time explaining some of the equipment on board.
The forecasted bad weather did not arrive in Kippford and everyone was able to enjoy themselves in dry and pleasant conditions. The day was rounded off with a disco and buffet for ticket holders in the Anchor Hotel which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
- Kippford Lifeboat Station has been operating since 1966
