July 7 2014.


This year’s Newhaven Lifeboat Summer Fete on Saturday was a celebration of 35 years of fundraising by Newhaven & District Lifeboat Society for RNLI Newhaven. Local coordinated fundraising first started in 1948 with the formation of the Ladies Lifeboat Guild and a Summer Event has been held in the town every year since. The Ladies Lifeboat Guild disbanded in 1979, with the current fundraising group being formed the same year.

The Fete was Cried open by the Town Crier of Peacehaven, Jon Borthwick, accompanied by his son, Alexander. He introduced the Deputy Mayor of Seaford, Cllr. Terry Goodman, to formally open the Fete. Also in attendance were Telscombe Mayor, Cllr. Wayne Botting, with his Consort, Emily, and Deputy Mayor of Newhaven, Cllr. Diane Hall.

Fortunately, the inclement weather of the early morning cleared to allow the many stallholders and those attending this year’s Fete to fully appreciate their day. The Bouncy Castle and Slide were as popular as ever with the younger children, while the older ones were able to enjoy an intriguing rope maze provided by 3rd Newhaven Scouts. The award winning Norcross Dancers performed a display and local community choir Haven Harmonies sang a variety of songs to the eagerly awaiting audience. At the Lifeboat House the 18 piece band of Maestro Music filled the outside decking and delighted those seeking refreshments at the Boathouse.

The celebration weekend continued on Sunday afternoon with the Lifeboat Display at Seaford Beach. This year the patient, yet expectant crowd were also treated with the arrival of the Coastguard Helicopter. The marvellous display demonstrated the skills of the volunteer lifeboat crew. Knowledgeable and informative live commentary was provided by Sea Safety Officer, Bill Walton, who said, “This display is the best I have seen in years. A true privilege to commentate on.”

Fete Organiser and Secretary for Newhaven & District Lifeboat Society, Graham Hillman, said, “The local district, individuals and businesses, have passionately and proudly supported their local lifeboat for many a year. We hope to have raised approximately £4500.00 this weekend. With their continuing support, we very much hope to maintain a lifeboat at Newhaven for many more years into the future.”

Anyone looking for details of upcoming fundraising events in support of RNLI Newhaven, such as Storytelling Evenings, Open Garden Event, Car Boot Sale and Quiz Nights should email rnlinewhaven.society@hotmail.co.uk