Thousands raised for RNLI Mudeford at event on market square

On Saturday, October 12, the Salisbury, Wilton and District fundraising branch of the RNLI held a day of fundraising on the market square.

Music was played by Shaftesbury Brass Band, as well as Kate Edgar's choirs All At Sea and The Navy Larks, who performed across the city centre.

Kate said: “Salisbury’s two sea shanty groups, The Navy Larks and All At Sea, had a wonderful time singing in Salisbury city centre today, helping to raise money for the RNLI in the 200th anniversary of the organisation’s founding.

"The Royal National Lifeboat Institution have been saving lives at sea since 1824, and it was a joy and an honour to support this wonderful organisation. It was also huge fun!” 

READ MORE: Inspector 'professionally embarrassed' for handling of Novichok

More than 30 collectors circulated the city centre to collect donations, with assistance from the sea cadets and scouts. RNLI lifeboat crew from Mudeford also attended, as well as the RNLI face to face team who were recruiting new supporters.

Sea cadets supported the fundraising event (Image: David Dymond)

Publicity officer David Dymond said: "Our nearest lifeboat station is down at Mudeford, most of what we raise goes towards supporting them. We work very closely with them. 

In total, £3,100 was raised for RNLI Mudeford, as well as a retail stall selling Christmas cards and other RNLI items which raised a further £660.

David added: "We're very happy! We're hoping this year will be our biggest fundraising [year] ever at the 200th anniversary of the RNLI."

Over £3100 was raised for RNLI Mudeford (Image: David Dymond)

The event was attended by shoppers, market visitors and the deputy lieutenant of Wiltshire representing the Lord Lieutenant, the mayor of Salisbury and the mayor of Wilton.

Mayor of Salisbury Sven Hocking said: '"Delighted to have attended the 200th Anniversary event for he RNLI.

"Having grown up in Cornwall I have seen their lifeboats launched, sometime in atrocious weather conditions, on many occasions and the bravery of the crews, mainly volunteers is something that we should all recognise."

The RNLI branch would like to give thanks to its sponsors: Stannah Stairlifts, Occasions Marquee Hire, who supplied the marquee in the Guildhall Square and LED Synergy, who supplied the mobile LED display and prepared the loop of RNLI videos.